Did Virtus.pro CEO just confirm a CS2 team disband?

Ivan Frigato Published December 4, 2024

Virtus.pro could be at risk of a disband after losing its chance at the Shanghai Major earlier than expected.

After the start of Perfect World Shanghai Major in late December, Virtus.pro became the latest elite team to exit the competition in the opening stage. The Russian-based team has a long record of CS major wins and placings. Its last big win was in 2022 under the name Outsiders, with some members still on the roster. Yet within the first weekend of Shanghai, the team went 1-3 with a final match against the less experienced team Wildcard.

CEO Nikolai Petrossian recently shared his dissatisfaction with the team’s performance. From his statement, it seems that Virtus.pro might be at risk of disbanding.

Virtus.pro CEO hints at possible team disbandment following Shanghai losses

The failure at Perfect World Shanghai Major could result in a complete rework or disbanding of the current Virtus.pro roster.

Petrossian stated in a Telegram post that reaching a CS2 major was the bare minimum that he expected from the team rather than the maximum. The CEO pinned part of the reason for their loss on a virus that the players caught while abroad. However, he ultimately believes that the team just wasn’t good enough. Petrossian and the rest of the higher-ups at Virtus.pro are now evaluating their options and are considering replacements.

The news likely doesn’t come as a surprise to team members. In-game leader and AWPer Dzhami “⁠Jame⁠” Ali told HLTV in October 2024 that depending on their major performances, anyone could be at risk of being transferred. Plus, Virtus.pro has seen issues leading up to the Shanghai Major that hinted at a later rework or disband. Newest addition Denis “electroNic” Sharipov’s style clashes with the squad and has notably reduced others’ performances.

Closing out his message, Petrossian warns against trusting whatever “rumors” may appear online. He states that any leaks about transfers or contract buyouts will “always have someone’s interest,” implying that others may use the turmoil in Virtus.pro to their advantage. Any answers as to whether or not Virtus.pro will fully disband will be announced as soon as everything is finalized.

In the meantime, there are plenty of teams still left in the running for the CS2 Shanghai Major title. Despite clear front-runners, the number of upsets means 2024 could be anyone’s game.