TL;DR
- Complexity replaces RUSH with es3tag following 16th-place IEM Cologne finish
- RUSH departs after nearly two years, leaving as only NA CSGO major champion
- es3tag brings Danish rifling expertise with $2.1M transfer history
- New roster features international talent with championship ambitions
- Organization maintains aggressive performance-based roster management approach
In a strategic move announced on July 22nd, Complexity Gaming executed a significant roster transformation by releasing veteran player Will “RUSH” Wierzba while simultaneously acquiring Danish standout Patrick “es3tag” Hansen.
This calculated personnel change directly responds to Complexity’s underwhelming performance at IEM Cologne, where they secured only 16th position. RUSH had been an integral part of the squad since September 2020, while es3tag remained inactive on Cloud9’s roster since March 2021. Initial reports of this transfer emerged from Denmark’s authoritative public broadcasting service TV2, known for reliable esports coverage.
I genuinely hoped our lineup could achieve sustained success, as we repeatedly approached breakthrough moments. However, competitive realities dictate that no roster configuration remains permanent, necessitating this strategic adjustment. Wishing my former teammates and organization continued success! I’m currently assessing potential opportunities while taking personal time during this competitive break.
— Will (@RUSH)
July 22, 2021
RUSH cemented his legendary status primarily through his tenure with Cloud9 during their historic ELEAGUE Boston Major championship run in 2018. He and his former teammates maintain the distinguished achievement of being the sole North American squad to capture a CSGO major title. His acquisition by Complexity occurred during an intensive roster reconstruction phase in late 2019. Based on recent social media activity, RUSH appears poised to take an extended competitive hiatus before pursuing new team opportunities. While streaming represents a potential interim activity, his Twitch channel has remained dormant for more than five years, suggesting limited interest in content creation.
es3tag brings substantial professional experience as a versatile Danish rifler, most recently competing under Cloud9’s banner. His contractual transfer to the North American organization involved a record-setting $2.1 million acquisition fee. This substantial financial investment likely contributed to Cloud9’s decision to dissolve their CSGO division in March 2021. His most significant tournament earnings came from securing $99,000 as champion of ESL Pro League Season 12, demonstrating his capability in high-pressure scenarios.
The evolution of a juggernaut:
Welcome
@es3tag
to
@Complexity
#COLCS
|
#WeAreCOL
pic.twitter.com/1rNCI2ez9L
— Complexity Gaming (@Complexity)
July 22, 2021
This roster adjustment, with potential additional changes under consideration, stems directly from Complexity’s disappointing 16th-place result at IEM Cologne. CSGO’s celebrated return to offline competition featured virtually all elite global teams. Complexity successfully navigated the initial qualification phase but fell in their opening group stage match against G2 Esports, who ultimately reached the tournament finals.
What is Complexity’s new CSGO roster
Assuming the es3tag-for-RUSH exchange represents Complexity’s sole roster modification, their revitalized CSGO lineup now comprises:
- Benjamin “blameF” Bremer
- Valentin “poizon” Vasilev
- Patrick “es3tag” Hansen
- Justin “jks” Savage
- Kristian “k0nfig” Wienecke
Complexity’s CSGO division maintained relative stability throughout 2020 and 2021, though the organization maintains a reputation for decisive roster adjustments when competitive outcomes fall short. Founder and CEO Jason Lake has consistently articulated his commitment to assembling a championship-caliber CSGO team. Lake undoubtedly anticipates that es3tag represents the crucial component necessary to elevate his squad to title contention.
Action Checklist
- Monitor Complexity’s performance in upcoming tournaments to assess es3tag’s integration effectiveness
- Analyze team chemistry through in-game communication and strategic coordination
- Track RUSH’s career decisions and potential return to competitive play
- Compare Complexity’s new international roster dynamics with other top-tier teams
No reproduction without permission：Games Guides Website » RUSH out, es3tag in for Complexity after rough Cologne finish Complexity Gaming's strategic roster overhaul: es3tag replaces RUSH after disappointing IEM Cologne performance