flameZ: Recent results are not the Vitality standard

The team's recent results have been inconsistent. After falling to NAVI at IEM Atlanta and Falcons at the IEM Cologne Major before the summer break, Vitality continued to face setbacks in the second season, losing at BLAST Bounty and the Esports World Cup. They also suffered an opening round loss to Inner Circle at BLAST Open Porto. However, the team has bounced back as expected and now awaits a clash with FalleN and FURIA in Portugal.

When asked about the mental load of recent losses, flameZ acknowledged the disappointment but viewed the period as an opportunity to grow stronger as a unit. He noted that playing with a stand-in, while challenging, has allowed the team to improve individually without the pressure of high-stakes tournaments. This approach has also benefited mezii, who has taken time away from Counter-Strike 2 to focus on his personal well-being and family.

Regarding the loss to Falcons in Cologne, flameZ argued that the match was balanced and could have gone either way. He pointed out that Vitality lost to Spirit at BLAST Bounty and the Esports World Cup, both of which were won by Spirit. While he admitted the team may have lost some confidence or form, he emphasized that they have successfully recovered from similar dips in the past and remains confident in the roster's capabilities.

The integration of stand-in jL has been a positive experience for the team. flameZ described jL as a fun and open personality who brings good energy to the group. Despite the complexity of joining a team with an established playbook, jL has been finding his input and knowing when to speak. His experience and demeanor fit well with the team's dynamic, contributing to a positive atmosphere.

Addressing the narrative that the Vitality era is over, flameZ rejected the idea. He recalled how the team was written off after a slow start in 2025, only to return and win trophies, including Budapest. For him, the true marker of the era ending would be a roster change, which would only occur after a sequence of bad events. As long as the current five players and staff maintain their strong relationships, flameZ believes the team will always have the opportunity to enter a dominant period.

On a lighter note, flameZ reflected on his desire to be named the seventh-best player of the year for a third consecutive time, a goal he had set after achieving it in 2025. While he admitted he might be disappointed if he achieved it again due to a drop in form, he ultimately prioritized team success over individual rankings. He stated that as long as the team is winning and he is giving his best, he is content with his individual standing.