Imperial Esports Launches European CS2 Academy Roster

Imperial Esports Launches European CS2 Academy Roster

Imperial Esports has officially revealed its new European Counter‑Strike 2 (CS2) academy roster, a strategic expansion designed to nurture emerging talent across Europe and the CIS. This initiative, announced on August 27, 2025, marks a significant milestone for the Brazilian organization’s global development plan. 

Academy Lineup

The lineup is composed of five young and promising players from Denmark, Ukraine, and Russia:

Nikita “Aliot” Kovalev (Russia, 20 y.o.) — serves as the in‑game leader (IGL)

Maksym “ta9zqq” Hrytsai (Ukraine, 16 y.o.)

Artem “oNESTLY” Kobziev (Ukraine, 17 y.o.)

Tristan “sh1Fu” Jensen (Denmark, 16 y.o.)

Frederik “Kragh” Kragh (Denmark, 18 y.o.)

According to reporting, the squad members range in age from 16 to 20, emphasizing the project’s focus on youth development. 

Coaching Team

The academy is supported by coaches Reinis “hyskeee” Grīnbergs and Kamen “bubble” Kostadinov, both of whom have prior experience working with Imperial’s female CS2 roster. 

Statement from the Organization

Imperial released a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating:

“The Gamdom Imperial Academy represents more than just a team, it’s an investment in the future of esports. By combining Imperial’s culture and winning values with Europe’s rising stars, our mission is to create an environment where talent flourishes, discipline is forged, and champions are built.” 

This underscores the academy’s role as a platform to cultivate the next generation of elite CS2 professionals. 

Context within Imperial’s Structure

This new academy is the third CS2 roster under Imperial’s umbrella, complementing their main roster and their female roster, the latter having made history by being the first women’s team invited to IEM Katowice. Imperial joins other organizations like BIG and The MongolZ in establishing academy systems focused on rising talent.