Cr1t-: "For Me This Is Probably The Last TI."

Team Falcons went out with a bang at The International 2026. The defending champions got taken out by Team Liquid, after a strong start to their series.

Once the match concluded Andreas "Cr1t-" Nielsen  shared his feelings on the playoff teams, his future in the game, and his time with Falcons. 

Cr1t-: "It's a special thing to be at TI. I'm going to miss it."

Team Falcons upset many people's predictions with their early exit at The International. While not as dominant as their performance last year, the team was expected to go further than top eight.

Cr1t shared that at this event, the playoff teams can all beat each other, and at least their losses were fairly close. 

"All eight playoff teams could beat each other, I think. We had two close series, and we were fortunate to do that. But at the end of the day, we just didn't hit our best, and that's what it took for this tournament."

Team Falcons has maintained the same lineup since its inception three years ago. The roster has played 799 games together, and this is one of the longest-lasting teams of all time in Dota 2. For Cr1t, he believes that the Falcons already accomplished what they needed to do last year.

"It's three years; it's a long time. A lot of memories. We had mixed results, but at the end of the day, we accomplished what we wanted last year. We were hoping to defend it this year, and it was a very hard tournament for us. I think everyone tried their best, but sometimes it's not meant to be. It's unfortunate, but we'll move on, and I'm sure everyone will be able to watch us again in the next few tournaments."

The interview concluded with Cr1t sharing words of thanks to his fans and how he feels at The International and perhaps some rather unexpected statements as well. "I mean, it's always special. Last time I was here, in 2019, it was also special. For me this is probably the last TI. I'm happy to do it here; it's always amazing to be in China. Fans all around the world cheering. It's a special thing to be at TI. I'm going to miss it. It's been a lot of TIs at this point. It's been a pleasure."

With Falcons gone, this TI will no longer have a defending champion. The excitement continues at the event, and we can't wait to see who will make it to the final day. 

READ MORE: The International 2026: Group Stage Meta Recap

Featured Image Source: Valve