Russian Esports Organization Virtus.pro Returns to the Apex Legends Scene After Four Years
Russian esports organization Virtus.pro, known for its success in games like Counter-Strike and Dota 2, has made its comeback to the competitive Apex Legends scene. The organization announced today that it has signed the Australian free agent roster Team Burger, which includes players Dylan “Prycyy” Price, Isaac “Wey” Gorial, and ALGS 2022 Championship winner Rick “Sharky” Wirth. In addition, coach Bilal “urban” Fulat has also joined Virtus.pro.
VP’s previous involvement in Apex Legends dates back to 2020, when the organization had a European roster consisting of Pjeh, Taylor, and noth. This trio competed against other European teams and managed to qualify for the 2020 ALGS Major One playoffs. However, due to the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, the event was permanently postponed.
In a statement released today, the VP organization revealed that it couldn’t fully realize its competitive Apex Legends project at that time due to various factors. However, the organization emphasized that the game is now prioritized highly, thanks to the support provided by EA to the teams.
After the return of LAN events, the 2022 Australian roster featuring Sharky, Noyan “Genburten” Ozkose, and Rhys “Zer0” Perry emerged as a global powerhouse. This Reignite roster won the APAC South Pro League and the ALGS Split Two playoffs before being picked up by the NA organization DarkZero. The team’s success continued as they won the ALGS 2022 world championship.
However, after a disappointing performance in the 2023 ALGS Split One playoffs, Sharky decided to step away from the team, citing a lack of enjoyment and passion for the game. He then participated in smaller events throughout the rest of the year before forming Team Burger with Prycyy and Wey at the start of 2024. The team managed to qualify for the ALGS Split One playoffs. Interestingly, Virtus.pro has been grouped with Sharky’s former club and teammates in DarkZero.