Counter-Strike icon Oleksandr “s1mple” Kostyljev has hinted at a profession change after an unexpectedly profitable stint with playing.
Throughout a stream on July 22, 2025, s1mple informed followers that he’s contemplating making a transfer in the direction of playing streaming after his contract with Natus Vincere (Na’Vi) expires. His chat instantly erupted, with followers rapidly taking sides on a possible transfer away from Counter-Strike. Whereas s1mple could be removed from the primary esports persona to maneuver into digital casinos, he would seemingly be the highest-profile participant to make the change. Right here’s what we find out about s1mple’s choice and when such an possibility would grow to be obtainable.
s1mple teases playing streams after leaving Na’Vi
Throughout his private livestream, s1mple claimed that he might transfer to playing as a further revenue stream after leaving Na’Vi.
Halfway by the stream, s1mple mentioned: “Rattling, I’ve by no means dipped into this swamp earlier than. Possibly I ought to give it a shot… I might make some money when my contract with Na’Vi ends. They are saying I might even stream it on Twitch.”
The star didn’t affirm a change, nor did he trace at any corporations with which he would accomplice. Nonetheless, the final a part of his assertion might trace at his plans. Twitch’s group tips prohibit the streaming of on line casino video games like slots, cube, and roulette. Nonetheless, the principles depart room for different types of playing like fantasy sports activities, match betting, and poker. Assuming that s1mple is aware of the principles, he might have poker or sports activities betting in thoughts. If he’s unaware of Twitch’s playing coverage, a change to playing may imply a change to Kick.
Credit score: Excellent World
s1mple is extensively thought of the best World Offensive participant of all time, however he selected to take an prolonged break from aggressive play on the launch of Counter-Strike 2. Since then, Natus Vincere’s CS2 division has maintained its elite standing with a number of podium finishes. The squad even received the primary CS2 Main trophy at PGL Main Copenhagen 2024.
This leaves s1mple in a clumsy spot, as he’s unable to return to the principle group. He has often performed as a stand-in for groups like Falcons and FaZe Clan to middling outcomes. It’s unlikely he’ll return to the highest tier of the esport, barring excessive circumstances.
Both manner, a choice should wait till his contract with Na’Vi expires. There’s seemingly a clause that prohibits particular person playing sponsorships or that prohibits streaming playing. In October of 2022, the sponsor formally introduced that it had signed s1mple for 3 extra years. Which means s1mple’s contract is energetic till late 2025. On the absolute earliest, s1mple might change to playing on October 23, 2025.
