jL steps down from NaVi roster, makazze promoted from junior squad

The 25-year-old rifler, a key figure in NaVi's 2023-2024 Tier 1 successes - including a Major title - has decided to take a break from competitive play.

The decision was reached through mutual agreement between jL and the organisation.

In a YouTube video, jL cited a combination of reasons for his temporary departure: dissatisfaction with his recent performances, the relentless pace of the CS2 calendar with minimal rest, and personal or family responsibilities.

He plans to step away for approximately six months but made it clear he intends to return to professional play thereafter.

To fill the void, NaVi have promoted 18-year-old Drin 'makazze' Shaqiri from their junior team. makazze now joins a first-team roster that includes Valerij 'b1t' Vakhovsjkyj, Aleksi 'Aleksib' Virolainen, Mihai 'iM' Ivan, and Ihor 'w0nderful' Zhdanov.

jL's departure comes amid a difficult run of form in the first half of 2025. Once a cornerstone of NaVi's rifling core, his recent performances have failed to meet his own high standards.

Nevertheless, his past contributions - particularly during NaVi's dominant 2023-2024 run - cement his legacy within the squad.