Luminosity Gaming returns to Counter-Strike
An iconic name rejoins the server.
North American esports organisation Luminosity Gaming has announced its return to Counter-Strike esports with the signing of a brand-new roster.
Five years since it last competed in Valve’s first-person shooter, the organisation has recruited a mixture of notable players to form an international squad.
The Monte core of Aurélien ‘afro’ Drapier, Aleks ‘Rainwaker’ Petrov, Aurimas ‘Bymas’ Pipiras, and Oscar ‘AZUWU’ Bell will stick together, while former Legacy player Lucas ‘lux’ Meneghini rounds out the team as its in-game leader.
Afro, Wainwaker, Bymas, and AZUWU join Luminosity Gaming following a promising IEM Cologne Major campaign where it secured a place in Stage 3 and defeated PARIVISION.
Lux joins the team after a difficult Cologne Major, having narrowly advanced to the third stage before bowing out with a 1-3 record.
“After retiring in 2021 and watching Luminosity, it was always my goal to one day buy it back and put LG where it belongs - where it all started - Counter-Strike,” said Steve Maida, Founder and Owner of Luminosity Gaming.
“We believe fully in this team and their success at Cologne proved we bet right. It’s only the beginning for this squad and we’re excited to see them grow to new heights.”
Luminosity Gaming is no stranger to Counter-Strike. In 2016, it won the MLG Columbus Major, and has fielded some of South America’s most recognisable names. The organisation’s return to Counter-Strike marks the first time in six years that it will field a roster in Tier 1 competitions.
A Fresh Start For Luminosity Gaming
Since reacquiring the organisation in January 2026, Maida continues to re-establish the Luminosity Gaming name at the forefront of international esports. The new-look Counter-Strike squad makes its debut at the XSE Pro League, taking place from July 1st to 12th in China.
As a result of signing the Monte core, Luminosity Gaming also inherits its place in the Valve Regional Standings. As of the June standings, the team sits in 21st place, giving it an excellent opportunity to receive direct invitations to high-profile tournaments.
The signing of a roster capable of performing on the international stage is a statement of intent for Luminosity Gaming. If it can reach the latter stages of Tier 1 events, expect the team to remain among the world’s best in the second half of the year.