ESL FACEIT Group confirms layoffs amid strategic restructuring

ESL FACEIT Group (EFG) has confirmed it is making staff reductions as part of a strategic review aimed at focusing on “the most meaningful growth opportunities ahead”.

The confirmation follows reporting from esports journalist Richard Lewis, who revealed that the cuts are affecting both the FACEIT platform and ESL tournament operations. Sources familiar with the matter told Lewis that around 50 positions could be affected on the FACEIT side, while layoffs at ESL could exceed 200 roles across multiple departments.

However, according to information obtained by The Esports Radar, although team adjustments have taken place within the digital platform and technology departments, the ESL division itself has not been affected. This means the total number of redundancies may fall short of the earlier estimates of 200–300 positions.

The layoffs mark a new significant cut since Savvy Games Group acquired and merged ESL and FACEIT. In February 2024, approximately 15% of the workforce was let go, and earlier this year, senior leadership changes saw Co-CEO Craig Levine step down, moving into an advisory role until the end of 2025.

In a statement provided to Lewis, EFG said:

“EFG has experienced a period of significant growth driven by multiple strategic acquisitions. Whilst this has opened up many new opportunities to grow esports globally, it has also brought with it complexity. To ensure EFG is fully focused on the most meaningful growth opportunities ahead, we have conducted a careful review of our strategic priorities. This process allows us to realign resources, ensuring we have the right teams and capabilities in place to lead, innovate, and deliver long-term success. As a result of this, some of our employees will unfortunately be impacted. We thank them for their hard work and dedication to the company, and wish them well for the future.”

While EFG’s statement emphasised strategic refocusing, Lewis’ report cited internal sources describing uncertainty about the company’s long-term direction. Some employees reportedly received severance packages and were invited to return as contractors for the company’s flagship Esports World Cup event in Riyadh.

The Esports Radar has contacted ESL FACEIT Group with follow-up questions and will provide updates as further information becomes available.

Editor’s note: Shortly after this story was published, The Esports Radar obtained additional information, which has since been incorporated into the text.