Luminosity Targets Monte Stars for Long-Awaited CS2 Return

Luminosity Gaming could be on the verge of a major return to Counter-Strike, as reports suggest the North American organization is actively working on a new CS2 roster built around several standout players from Monte.

According to information published by HLTV, Luminosity is currently negotiating with Bymas, AZUWU, and afro, whose contracts with the Ukrainian organization are approaching their expiration dates. The trio played a crucial role in Monte’s surprising run at the IEM Cologne Major 2026, where the team emerged as one of the tournament’s biggest underdog stories.

Monte Stars Linked to Luminosity

The reported project centers around three of Monte’s key players, all of whom helped the roster exceed expectations on Counter-Strike’s biggest stage.

Another name connected to the lineup is Rainwaker. However, unlike Bymas, AZUWU, and afro, the Bulgarian player remains under contract with Monte, meaning any transfer would require an agreement between both organizations.

Meanwhile, Monte captain Gizmy is not expected to join the project. Reports indicate that he is currently exploring opportunities elsewhere and is in talks with another organization.

lux Expected to Lead the New Roster

Sources also suggest that Brazilian rifler lux could become the centerpiece of the new lineup.

The former Legacy player was first linked to Luminosity earlier this year after being moved to the bench by his previous team. If the deal goes through, lux could become the foundation around which the rest of the roster is built.

Monte Tried to Keep Its Core Together

Before the start of the Cologne Major, Monte reportedly attempted to secure contract extensions for Bymas, AZUWU, and afro.

However, following the conclusion of the tournament, all three players informed the organization of their intention to pursue opportunities elsewhere, opening the door for Luminosity to make its move.

Monte's Breakout Performance in Cologne

Monte captured the attention of the Counter-Strike community with an impressive showing at the IEM Cologne Major 2026.

The team recorded victories over Legacy, paiN, and PARIVISION, while also putting up competitive performances against G2, The MongolZ, and eventual champions Falcons.

Although their run ended with a 12th–14th place finish, Monte left Cologne as one of the tournament's biggest revelations.

A Historic Brand Looking to Return

For Luminosity, signing this roster would mark a significant step toward re-establishing itself in Counter-Strike after years away from the scene.

Earlier in 2026, founder Steve Maida reacquired the Luminosity brand for CAD 300,000, seven years after selling the organization.

Luminosity remains one of the most iconic names in Counter-Strike history thanks to its legendary Brazilian lineup featuring FalleN, coldzera, and company. Under the Luminosity banner, that roster won the MLG Columbus Major 2016, defeating NAVI in the grand final before later moving to SK Gaming and capturing another Major title.

If negotiations are completed successfully, Luminosity could return to CS2 with an international lineup built around several of the players who impressed fans and analysts alike at the Cologne Major, marking the beginning of a new chapter for one of esports’ most recognizable brands.