FaZe Join HLC Belgrade PRO 2026 in Last Attempt to Qualify for IEM Cologne Major

FaZe Enter HLC Belgrade PRO 2026 to Keep IEM Cologne Major Qualification Hopes Alive

FaZe have made a last-minute decision to attend HLC Belgrade PRO 2026, giving themselves a final шанс to qualify for the IEM Cologne Major 2026. The $30,000 Counter-Strike LAN event, scheduled for April 3–5, is one of the final opportunities to earn VRS ranking points before the April 6 cutoff.

After a series of disappointing results, FaZe now find themselves in a must-perform situation, with their Cologne Major hopes hanging by a thread.

Why HLC Belgrade PRO 2026 Matters for IEM Cologne Qualification

The HLC Belgrade PRO 2026 tournament has become a ключевой event in the race to Cologne. Organized by Relog Media and relocated to Belgrade shortly before the deadline, it offers teams one of the last chances to gain valuable ranking points.

With limited events remaining, FaZe’s participation signals a strategic shift. The team is prioritizing VRS points over schedule stability, even though the tournament overlaps with PGL Bucharest.

Other teams, including BIG, are also expected to compete, making the event highly competitive and directly impactful for Major qualification standings.

FaZe’s Recent Results: Losses to TYLOO, Aurora, and fnatic

FaZe’s road to this point has been defined by inconsistency and key losses:

Defeat to Aurora in a critical series

Shock elimination by TYLOO at BLAST Open Rotterdam

Loss to Passion UA at DraculaN Season 6

Elimination by fnatic, which initially ended their Major hopes

These results significantly damaged FaZe’s ranking position, leaving them with almost no margin for error heading into April.

Roster Changes and Internal Issues

The team’s struggles have also been reflected in internal changes. In March 2026, FaZe parted ways with head coach Filip "NEO" Kubski, ending a long-standing partnership.

Following the move, Finn "karrigan" Andersen openly criticized the team’s performance, stating that their year had been “completely shit” and emphasizing that responsibility lies with the entire roster.

This highlights deeper structural and performance issues that FaZe must overcome if they want to return to top form.

Twistzz Return and FaZe’s Untapped Potential

The return of Russel "Twistzz" Van Dulken in late 2025 was expected to revitalize the lineup. Twistzz described FaZe as “home” and expressed confidence in reuniting with familiar teammates.

Additionally, David "frozen" Čerňanský previously stated that “FaZe magic is there,” reinforcing belief in the team’s potential.

However, despite flashes of promise, FaZe have struggled to convert that potential into consistent results in 2026.

FaZe’s Final Chance to Reach IEM Cologne 2026

With the VRS cutoff approaching, HLC Belgrade PRO 2026 represents FaZe’s last realistic opportunity to qualify for IEM Cologne.

Every match in Belgrade will be critical, as even small improvements in ranking could determine whether FaZe secure a Major spot or miss out entirely.

The stakes could not be higher. FaZe’s late entry into the tournament shows they are still fighting—but whether they can deliver under pressure remains the biggest question.