Despite juggling a brutal schedule, fnatic dug deep and delivered when it mattered most, clinching the DraculaN Season 1 LAN title. The victory not only secured silverware but also netted them a crucial 115 VRS points, propelling them eight spots up the rankings and boosting their chances of reaching the StarLadder Budapest Major.
Budapest Major 2025Hungary
Vitality
FaZe Clan
Natus VincereA Tournament Full of Upsets
Few could have predicted the early exits of favorites Ninjas in Pyjamas and Passion UA, but fnatic kept their composure throughout a chaotic bracket. The path to the trophy was anything but simple: they had to take down an in-form ENCE, battle past EYEBALLERS (the team that eliminated NiP), and outlast the surprise package of the event, Monte — twice.
All Hands on Deck
What made fnatic’s run special was the balance across the roster. Dmytro “jambo” Semera led the way with a team-high 1.25 rating, while Rodion “fear” Smyk and Benjamin “blameF” Bremer carried series with scoreboard-topping performances. Veterans Freddy “KRIMZ” Johansson and Cai “CYPHER” Watson turned up in the clutch — KRIMZ in the semifinals, CYPHER sealing the grand final with authority.
Implications for Major Qualification
The LAN win in Bucharest could prove season-defining. Fnatic now sit comfortably in a Stage 1 qualification spot for the Budapest Major, and with momentum building, they may even catch HEROIC for a direct Stage 2 berth. Meanwhile, NiP and Passion UA were the tournament’s biggest losers, each dropping over 30 VRS points and sliding further away from Major contention.
Final Standings – DraculaN Season 1
- Fnatic – $4,917
- Monte – $2,458
- ENCE – $1,475
- 9INE – $983
- EYEBALLERS – Top 6
- Gentle Mates – Top 6
- Ninjas in Pyjamas – Top 8
- Passion UA – Top 8
Fnatic’s win at DraculaN isn’t just another trophy — it’s a statement of intent. With their roster finally clicking, and points stacked toward the Major, they’ve shown they can grind through fatigue, upsets, and pressure to stay in the race. The next few months could define their season — will they go all the way to Budapest?