An Unexpected Change in Counter-Strike: Aurora Signs Eternal Fire Roster

Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) team Aurora recently revealed that they signed the entire roster of rival team Eternal Fire. This strategic move followed their decision to dismiss their primarily Russian team, ushering a significant pivot for the organization. Featuring star players Ismailcan “⁠XANTARES⁠” Dörtkardeş and Özgür “⁠woxic⁠” Eker, this change will debut at the PGL Bucharest 2025. This event will mark the end of Eternal Fire’s independent run which began in 2021 and witnessed them achieve notable milestones within the Turkish and global CS2 scene.

Understanding the Decision

The transfer came after economic hurdles and restrictive sponsorship policies in Turkey. Eternal Fire’s AWPer Özgür “woxic” Eker pointed out these challenges. As Turkey only accommodates a single state-run bookmaker, teams like Eternal Fire faced difficulties securing private sponsors. Despite multiple playoff appearances and ranking in the top five in the Valve world rankings, Eternal Fire couldn’t evade these economic constraints, prompting their shift to Aurora.

The Road to PGL Bucharest 2025

With this new line-up, Aurora is now slated to participate in the PGL Bucharest 2025. This Tier 1 CS2 tournament offers a $1.25 million prize pool and is scheduled from April 6 to April 13. The competition consists of a Swiss System during the group stage and single-elimination playoffs. Given Eternal Fire’s sustained consistency in reaching playoffs, experts see them advancing far in the competition, potentially as one of the favorites.

Who Makes Up the New Roster?

The new Aurora comprises the following members:

• Özgür “woxic” Eker (AWPer)
• Ismailcan “XANTARES” Dörtkardeş (Rifler)
• Engin “MAJ3R” Küpeli (In-Game Leader)
• Ali Haydar “Wicadia” Yalçın (Entry Fragger)
• Samet “jottAAA” Köklü (Rifler)
• Sezgin “Fabre” Kalaycı (Coach)

Prior to the transfer, this roster made five consecutive playoff appearances and got an invitation to the third stage of the Austin Major, showing their impressive teamwork and skill.

The Bigger Picture

This transfer is significant for the future of both Aurora and Eternal Fire. Aurora fortifies its standing in CS2 with a proven roster, while Eternal Fire maintains their other divisions, like their academy and League of Legends teams, under less restrictive financial conditions. This development highlights the challenges esports teams encounter in regions with restricted sponsorship opportunities. With the new roster from Eternal Fire, Aurora is a team to keep an eye on as the CS2 circuit proceeds into decisive tournaments such as the PGL Bucharest 2025.