Cloud9 owner Jack Etienne says sustainability is key for a CS2 return in "a difficult market"

A recent press conference with notable figures from Esports Foundation Club Partner Program organizations was held regarding the upcoming Esports World Cup. Among the attendees was Cloud9's owner and founder, Jack Etienne, who was asked about the prospect of the legendary NA org re-entering CS2. He said, "I would need to find a way to do it sustainably."

Later in the conference, he gave more insight into the current situation. "If I saw an opportunity to do it sustainably for Cloud9…I would immediately jump at it. But it's a difficult market, so I don't have an opportunity right now." While he says he would consider it, it does not seem like he has any plans at the moment. This rationale is in line with Cloud9's behavior across many esports, as well as its history in Counter-Strike.

Sustainability is all about having a consistent source of reliable revenue, and the VRS system has taken out the floor for many teams. This has led some organizations, like FaZe, who previously got spots at all big tournaments, to fall out of the circuit due to their poor performances.

Cloud9's latest CS team left the scene right around when the VRS invites were implemented, meaning they would no longer get automatic invites. In 2024, Cloud9 remained in the CS scene despite consistently weak performances. Partner leagues like the BLAST Premier circuit helped ease the burden of a shaky squad. When that was gone, Cloud9 left too.

The organization relies heavily on partner leagues for sustainability in its other esports as well. Three of Cloud9's most notable teams are in League of Legends, VALORANT, and Call of Duty. It's no coincidence that all three of these titles feature exclusive partner leagues where organizations must buy their way in to play.

With the VRS system prioritizing strong teams over legacy organizations more than ever, it seems unlikely that Cloud9 will return to CS if they want sustainability without putting up a strong team.