faveN: “If BIG Offered Me a 10-Year Contract, I’d Probably Sign It”

faveN Open to a Long-Term Future at BIG After Emotional Return

Josef “faveN” Baumann has made it clear that he sees his future at BIG. Speaking to HLTV after the German squad’s recent matches, the 26-year-old rifler admitted that if the organization offered him an unusually long contract, he would have little hesitation in accepting it.

“If BIG would give me a 10-year contract, I would probably sign it,” faveN said, emphasizing how comfortable and motivated he feels within the organization. The statement reflects not only his satisfaction with the current project but also how differently he views BIG compared to previous stages of his career.

For a player whose first stint with BIG ended in disappointment, the renewed commitment highlights just how much has changed since his return.

A Second Chance After an Unfinished First Chapter

faveN originally joined BIG at the end of 2021 in what was described at the time as a record transfer for a German Counter-Strike player. Expectations were enormous, as he arrived from Sprout carrying a reputation as one of Germany’s most promising talents.

His first period with BIG featured several notable achievements, including victory at the Roobet Cup 2022 and qualification for some of the biggest events in the world. However, the partnership never fully reached the heights many expected. Health issues and roster instability disrupted his progress before he was eventually moved out of the active lineup in 2023.

Following his departure, faveN spent time exploring new opportunities and competing outside of BIG, experiences that ultimately helped shape his perspective on what he values in a team environment.

Why BIG Feels Different Now

When BIG announced faveN’s return, the organization described him as a key component of its rebuilding process. CEO Daniel Finkler stated that the club had closely monitored his development and still believed in his long-term potential.

For faveN, the reunion appears to be about more than just competitive ambitions. Upon rejoining, he spoke positively about getting another opportunity with an organization that feels familiar and welcoming. He acknowledged that his first spell did not end the way he wanted, but expressed confidence that the team can now achieve its goals together.

That sense of belonging was reflected in his recent comments to HLTV. Rather than viewing BIG as simply another stop in his professional career, he described himself as genuinely happy within the organization and comfortable with the people around him.

BIG’s Rebuild and Growing Optimism

The German organization entered a new era ahead of the 2026 season by reshaping its roster around experienced names and proven talent. The arrivals of Benjamin “blameF” Bremer and faveN were among the most significant moves of the rebuild. BIG management openly framed the roster changes as part of a long-term strategy aimed at returning the team to relevance on the international stage.

According to BIG, the combination of established leadership, international experience, and returning talent should provide a stronger foundation for future success. The organization specifically highlighted faveN’s continued development during his time away as one of the reasons for bringing him back.

For the player himself, the new environment appears considerably healthier than the circumstances surrounding his departure in 2023. The current project offers stability, a familiar culture, and an opportunity to compete alongside players he believes can help the team progress.

From German Prospect to Established Veteran

Although still only 26 years old, faveN is no longer the up-and-coming prospect who first attracted attention during his years with Sprout. Over the course of his career, he has represented several organizations and competed across both CS:GO and Counter-Strike 2, building a reputation as one of Germany’s most reliable riflers.

His journey has included domestic success, international playoff appearances, and periods of adversity that tested his resilience. Those experiences appear to have reinforced his appreciation for stability and trust within an organization.

Looking Ahead

While a 10-year esports contract remains highly unlikely in modern Counter-Strike, faveN’s remark sends a clear message about his mindset. At a time when roster moves have become increasingly common and long-term commitments are rare, the German rifler appears fully invested in BIG’s future.

The organization, meanwhile, continues its attempt to rebuild its status among Europe’s leading teams. If the current project develops as planned, both sides could benefit from what increasingly looks like a mutually rewarding reunion.

For now, faveN is focused on helping BIG climb the rankings again — but his comments suggest he would not mind spending many more years doing exactly that.