FaZe Clan announced the benching of their longest-standing Counter-Strike player, Håvard “rain” Nygaard, on September 29. The Norwegian leaves the active lineup after almost 10 years to make space for the arrival of Russel “Twistzz” Van Dulken.
Rain was a part of FaZe since January 2016, when the organization entered CS:GO esports with the acquisition of G2’s lineup. The 31-year-old went on to win numerous trophies under the FaZe banner, including IEM Cologne and IEM Katowice in 2022, and most notably, the PGL Antwerp Major in the same year. He was also named the MVP of that Major.
Later, in 2023, rain was part of the FaZe team that reached eight grand finals in a row, following the worldwide release of CS2. His benching, however, comes at a time when FaZe are struggling to contend for championships against the top teams in the world.
Jakub “jcobbb” Pietruszewski will most likely take the entry-fragger role, with Twistzz playing aggressively in some rounds, depending on the spawn.
There have been rumors, since last year, that rain was going to retire. However, the Norwegian made it very clear that he’s not hanging up the mouse anytime soon, and is even open to becoming an in-game leader.
My journey in CS2 is far from over. I’m not retiring. I will keep competing and growing as a player. I’m open to offers for any role, and while stepping into the IGL role would be a new challenge for me, it’s one I’m eager to embrace.
No matter the position, I will bring the same dedication, apssion, and drive that has fueled me for all these years. I’m ready for the next challenge.
This is somewhat surprising, given that rain spent most of his career as a star player. But nearly every player tends to take the IGL role as a way to prolong their career. Although IGLs put in a lot of hours in prep and practice, they don’t need a high fragging output to stay relevant.
rain is the definition of a franchise player in CS esports. Credit: Sebastian Pandelache | © PGL
As one could expect, rain left a heartfelt message to FaZe, having represented the team for almost 10 years.
After 10 unforgetable years, the time has come for me to say goodbye to FaZe Clan. And although FaZe has decided to go another direction, I am beyong proud of what we have achieved in the past decade.
To my teammates, past and present, I just want to say thank you for the countless memories, amazing matches, and trophies we have lifted. Playing alongside some of the most talented individuals in the game has been an honor. To the organization and everyone who has believed in me, I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to represent FaZe.
And to all the fans that have supported me and the team, thank you for always being the loudest to cheer.
In retribution, FaZe released a farewell video, which includes emotional testimonials from his teammates.
Now that he’s on the bench, rain will most likely join another organization post-Starladder Budapest Major 2025. There will be a lot of teams making changes for 2026, and undoubtely some will reach out to rain, given his capabilities and brand value.
Feature image credit: Tyler Grenfell | © Esports World Cup
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