Fnatic has consistently held a reputation as one of the premier Valorant teams globally since the introduction of the Valorant Champions Tour (VCT). After a sluggish beginning to 2025 during the EMEA Kickoff, the team has rebounded impressively, achieving victory in all three of its matches in EMEA Stage 1. Additionally, in January 2025, Fnatic initiated a partnership with Red Bull to broaden its outreach and engagement.
As a result of this collaboration, I had the opportunity to converse with Emir “Alfajer”Ali Beder, Timofey “Chronicle”Khromov, and Austin “crashies”Roberts on April 14, 2025. This engaging discussion spanned a variety of topics, including the intricate realities of Valorant esports such as training regimens and challenges in team dynamics. The players were forthright, offering detailed insights during our time together.
Insights from Fnatic’s Valorant Stars: VCT, Personal Goals, and Team Dynamics
crashies: Growing up with traditional sports, particularly baseball, I recognize the significant leap Red Bull has taken in collaborating with esports teams and gamers. This partnership has played a pivotal role in helping us all evolve into athletes, a crucial aspect for the growth of the scene. The opportunities today far exceed what was available in the past, and there’s a genuine appreciation for this progress, with hopes for continued growth.
Q: The Red Bull Home Ground has featured your team multiple times. How has the tournament evolved over the past few years, and what distinguishes it from other off-season tournaments?
Chronicle: The Red Bull Home Ground has proven to be a consistent event; there’s a reliability in what Red Bull brings to the table. Their support during the Valorant off-season is invaluable, given the limited tournament schedule during that time. This year’s event in Berlin, though familiar to our Berlin players, was a solid choice, with last year’s Tokyo experience being another highlight. Red Bull keeps the off-season engaging.
Q: After a challenging Kickoff, you’ve bounced back. What do you think affects your early season performance?
Alfajer: Historically, we haven’t started years strong, with Kickoff events being particularly tough. The format is ruthless; if you lose, you’re done. Additionally, integrating new players and coaches contributes to the struggle. Yet here we are in Stage 1, showing our true potential and looking good moving forward.
Q: What are your thoughts on the format changes within the VCT this year, particularly with the extended timeline and revised ascension/relegation scheme? How has the coaching staff’s transition influenced the team?
Chronicle: The extended season offers more competitive opportunities, which is beneficial for players like us. However, from a competitive standpoint, not much has shifted beyond the extra tournament. The consistency in practice is essential, yet balancing gameplay with sufficient rest remains challenging. This format can be tiresome for teams, particularly those performing well and consistently reaching the latter stages of tournaments. Exhaustion is an inevitable aspect of competitive gaming.
Q: Do you think the new format addresses concerns about the frequency of tournaments and player fatigue?
Chronicle: I’m skeptical that the adjustments meaningfully alleviate player fatigue. For those competing in multiple events, there’s limited respite between tournaments. Even a successful run doesn’t afford them much downtime before the next major competition, which makes practice feel endless, whether the outcome is winning or losing.
Q: Crashies, transitioning from North America to the EMEA must have its challenges. How has adapting to a new team environment been for you?
crashies: Relocating halfway across the world has been significant for me, especially since I’ve spent my entire career in America. However, I embraced the change and view it as a necessary challenge accepted wholeheartedly. The practice routines sustain a sense of regularity despite differing cultures and climates. Comparing Fnatic to my previous experience with NRG, the atmosphere here is incredibly supportive and enjoyable. The camaraderie is evident, and I’m grateful for that.
Q: Boaster previously mentioned that Fnatic represents “five great teammates” compared to teams like Vitality, which he described as “five great players.” How does this distinction manifest in your experiences?
crashies: Having been recognized as part of a ‘super team’ with NRG, I learned that individual talent alone does not equate to teamwork. In Fnatic, we have role players who elevate each other and synergize effectively. The focus on maintaining relationships is integral. This openness allows us to address and resolve issues collectively, a dynamic not found in every team. It’s challenging to assess how other teams like Vitality operate from the outside, so I can’t comment definitively.
Alfajer: In our case, we excel in individual skills, but our key differentiators are the energy and enthusiasm we bring daily. Our positive relationships contribute significantly to our performance and enjoyment of the game.
Chronicle: From a viewer’s standpoint, identifying a ‘super team’ is complex. Success often correlates with a few skilled players, yet true teamwork and synergy are crucial to sustained achievement. Just assembling top-tier players doesn’t guarantee success; it’s essential to foster collaboration. Many fans only see the surface and may not grasp the underlying structures of a successful team.
Alfajer: A sports analogy: you can’t defeat Manchester City with eleven players like Ronaldo.
Chronicle: That’s an apt comparison. Even with an exceptionally talented roster, lacking synergy means defeat is virtually assured. Past successes, such as our notable performance in 2023, exemplified how crucial teamwork is. Despite not clinching the championship, our cohesive synergy contributed to a remarkable season.
Q: Alfajer, entering Fnatic at a young age has brought you a dedicated fanbase. How has this influence affected you?
Alfajer: Overall, the experience has been positive. The lone drawback is being separated from my family at a young age, which has been tough. However, I’ve grown accustomed to it. Beyond that, the advantages far outweigh any negatives.
Q: Aside from aiming for championships, what are your individual aspirations for this year?
crashies: Winning titles remains my top priority, but I am also focused on regaining my optimal form, as I briefly showcased at the year’s onset.
Alfajer: My primary goal is to reclaim the title of the best Sentinel in the world by winning the Champions.
Chronicle: My focus is on empowering both myself and my teammates to foster a comfortable environment, which is integral to our success.
As Fnatic moves forward, they have two essential matches left in the VCT EMEA Stage 1, facing GiantX on April 17, 2025, and Team Heretics on April 25.