100 Thieves Reportedly Returning to Counter-Strike with Rain at the Helm

100 Thieves are set to make a long-awaited return to Counter-Strike, this time building their comeback around one of the game’s longest-serving icons. According to reports from Dust2.dk and prominent Russian leaker Aleksei “OverDrive” Birukov, Håvard “rain” Nygaard has already signed with the American organization, marking the first major step in their re-entry into CS2.

Nadeshot’s Organization Makes Its Move

The Los Angeles-based organization, founded by former Call of Duty professional Matthew “Nadeshot” Haag, has been out of the Counter-Strike circuit since 2020, when they exited citing “uncertainty” around the competitive ecosystem. Their previous lineup, headlined by Justin “jks” Savage and the ex-Renegades Australian roster, reached the IEM Beijing 2019 Grand Final and peaked at fifth in the world rankings before the plug was pulled.

100 Thieves at IEM Beijing 2019 (Image Source: ESL)

Over four years later, the organization’s leadership seems determined to revisit the scene. Jacob "Maelk" Toft-Andersen, president of 100 Thieves, stated in 2024 that returning to Counter-Strike was an “ambition” for the brand. That ambition appears to be materializing, with internal reports suggesting that the roster is actively in development.

Rain’s Next Chapter

Rain’s imminent signing represents a major step for 100 Thieves. The Norwegian veteran, who spent over eight years and nearly 2000 maps with FaZe Clan, is one of the most accomplished players in CS history. Known for his consistency and composure under pressure, rain helped lead FaZe to multiple championship victories, including a PGL Major Antwerp 2022 triumph.

The 29-year-old recently announced his departure from FaZe, admitting in his farewell post that while his tenure was memorable, “this is not my future.” He confirmed he was “open to offers for any role,” including in-game leadership – a versatility that gives 100 Thieves flexibility as they construct their new lineup.

Roster Construction and Timeline

While rain’s signing seems to be secured, details about the rest of the lineup remain under wraps. OverDrive reports that 100 Thieves have prioritized three players from GamerLegion as potential teammates for rain. However, the identities of those targets and the coaching staff remain unconfirmed. Dust2.dk notes that rain’s contract is contingent on 100 Thieves assembling a competitive core capable of challenging at the top level of CS2.

For now, the organization appears to be moving cautiously, ensuring that their return is anchored by a roster with international potential. There is currently no timeline for when the full lineup will be unveiled or when 100 Thieves will make their official re-entry into tournament play.

100 Thieves’ comeback would mark one of the most notable re-entries into professional CS in recent years. Backed by a robust brand, a loyal fanbase, and the leadership of Nadeshot and Toft-Andersen, the organization seems poised to make a significant impact, trying to bridge the gap between North American ambition and global Counter-Strike excellence.

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Featured Image Credit: Tyler Grenfell/EWC/Edited by Strafe Esports

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