Originally exiting the Counter-Strike: Global Offensive in March 2021, North American esports giant Cloud9 has announced their return to the game with the acquisition of Gambit. The purchase was for an undisclosed sum, and Cloud9 now has ownership of one of the best teams in the world. The team is expected to have their first major competition with the Cloud9 organization at PGL Antwerp Major in May, after having qualified through the European RMR B. “This is an exciting time for Counter Strike, with LAN events returning we’re seeing incredible interest amongst fans. I would definitely say the resurgence is well under way”, Cloud9's CEO and Co-Founder Jack Etienne stated.

The lineup of players acquired in the purchase include Vladislav “nafany” Gorshkov, Timofey “interz” Yakushin, Dmitriy “sh1ro” Sokolov, Sergey “Ax1Le” Rykhtorov, and Abai “HObbit” Hasenov.  In addition, they are also signing on members of the team's support staff, such as team manager Aleksandr “Sweetypotz” Scherbakov, analyst Ivan “F_1N” Kochugov, and longtime +Gambit head coach Konstantin “groove” Pikiner.

"When we left the league, we always promised that we would be back," states the release on Cloud9's website. "This week, we are returning to the scene with an iconic lineup. This collection of players have shown incredible promise and talent, and we are thrilled that we can continue to support their passions and careers. Cloud9 will help the team relocate and get settled, as well as providing the type of high-level support that comes with joining an established and winning organization."

Gambit Esports have been a staple name in the CS:GO scene over the past several years, and have won numerous S-Tier events in that team.  Some of their most recent accomplishments include making it to the finals of BLAST Premier: World Final 2021 and winning the BLAST Premier: Spring Finals 2021.