Fnatic to reportedly bring in Apeks Duelist to replace Derke

The defending VCT EMEA Champions and two time Masters Winners, Fnatic, are set to bring in a youngster in their fold.

According to the reports from Sheep Esports’ Anonimotum, Fnatic have reportedly reached a verbal agreement with VCT EMEA Ascension Champions Apeks’ Duelist Kajetan “kaajak” Haremski for the upcoming VCT season. The 20 y.o will replace Nikita "Derke" Sirmitev, who announced free agency earlier after spending three years under the Fnatic banner.

Fnatic and Derke's long partnership

Joining Fnatic alongside Magnum back in April 2021, Derke helped the squad secure a 2nd place finish at the first international lan, VCT 2021: Masters 2 Reykjavik.

Fnatic has since undergone multiple roster changes, managing to improve after each of the roster moves. They have managed to attend 11 out of the 12 international events and are the only two-time back to back International champions.

The partnership has brought recognition and trophies to both parties. Unfortunately, 2024 was a struggling year for the Fnatic squad. Despite their domestic success, they had shaky international performance.

They completely missed Madrid, and were eliminated early from Shanghai and Seoul, indicating a need for change. And following the conclusion of the season, Derke announced his free agency.

With their long-time duelist out, the European esports organization has now turned to the Polish youngster.

Kaajak’s Ascension

Kaajak joined Apeks at the start of 2024, helping the former VCT EMEA Ascension runner-ups on their expedition to the top once again. The roster absolutely dominated VCL North Polaris, and were the favorites going into VCT 2024: EMEA Ascensions.

At the tournament, Apeks only lost a single series, before the lifted the trophy and secured their place in VCT 2025. kaajak was the best rated player of the tournament.

Fnatic brings in kaajak

The addition of kaajak will definitely help Fnatic fill in the void left by Derke. He might not be a one-on-one replacement in terms of experience, the firepower is on par. The organization also has yet to confirm the rest of the roster. They have let go of their super sub in Hiro, who is reportedly joining Na'Vi. And there aren't any updates on Leo, Alfajer Chronicle or Boaster.

It'd be interesting to see, what Fnatic has in store for us for the upcoming season. Follow Fnatic on X/Twitter for the latest update on the VALORANT roster. You can follow Strafe for the latest updates on VCT 2025.

Featured Image Credits: Wojciech Wandzel/Riot Games

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