<p>US-based e-sports organisation Cloud9 is taking over the Russian-Kazakh lineup of Gambit Esports.<br />Cloud9 returns to the world of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive after a year-long absence. The US-based e-sports organisation announced on Sunday the signing of the Gambit lineup, which qualified as players for the PGL Major Antwerp 2022 just last week.</p>
<p>Reports had been circulating since March that the quintet around captain Vladislav 'nafany' Gorshkov was for sale. After Russia's attack on Ukraine, Gambit's lineup had to compete under a neutral name as the Russian organisation was banned from organisers such as the ESL and PGL due to alleged links to the Russian government.</p>
<p>Cloud9's statement says they will now help the team move and settle in. In addition to the five players and coach Konstantin 'groove' Pikiner, Cloud9 is also taking on analyst Ivan 'F_1N' Kochugov and manager Alexander 'Sweetypotz' Shcherbakov.</p>
<p>Where the new team will move to is not mentioned by Cloud9. Possibilities would be Europe or North America. The acquisition of the Gambit roster, currently ranked third in the world, is a sporting win for the North Americans.</p>
<p>A year ago, Cloud9 ended its CS:GO commitment due to a lack of sporting success, although the North Americans had put together a renowned roster with much fanfare and a lot of money. Cloud9, however, never lived up to the claims of the team led by Henry 'HenryG' Greer.</p>
<p>In contrast, Gambit wrote a success story, especially last year, which led the team to the top of the world rankings through several tournament victories. Through consistent performances, the team has been able to consolidate its place among the world's elite to date.</p>
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<p><em>Image: https://dotesports.com</em></p>
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