Fer returns to Majors with Gaimin Gladiators for IEM Cologne

Fernando “fer” Alvarenga has signed a short-term deal with Gaimin Gladiators and will start in the IEM Cologne Major Stage 1 opener against BetBoom on June 2, 2026, scheduled for 10:30.

Alvarenga made his competitive debut with Gaimin Gladiators at the BC Game Masters Championship Season 2 on May 22, where the team lost 0–2 to Acend and 0–2 to Inner Circle. He attributed the early exits to limited preparation: “We have like two weeks of practice only, and it’s kind of hard to have a really good connection inside the server,” fer said. “We played badly this tournament. Now let’s practice more, because the Major is coming and we have to do better.”

Fer is replacing felps on the active roster for Cologne. He declined to compare himself directly to his former teammate and said he does not know all the circumstances behind the roster change. Alvarenga described felps as “a really really good player” with an aggressive style and said he accepted the short-term spot specifically to play the Major and to practice for a limited period.

Though he has been out of full-time competition since 2023, fer said he does not feel pressured by the return. “I don’t feel much pressure. I have been playing since 2011 so I kind of know how to lose and how to win, so there is no pressure for me,” he added. He acknowledged the challenge of adjusting to current tactics and to positions he is not yet playing in while filling a substitute role.

Alvarenga commented on changes in professional Counter-Strike, noting younger players now receive higher salaries, broader sponsor support and better team infrastructure, while long-time players face a heavier tournament schedule. He contrasted that with his early career, when he said he received about $300 while competing in the United States.

Life outside competition was a major factor in his initial retirement. Fer said he stepped away because he stopped enjoying the grind and wanted to spend more time with family, describing long travel stretches that left little personal time.

Alvarenga last appeared on a Major stage at IEM Rio in 2022. Gaimin Gladiators have just over one week to prepare for their Stage 1 opener on June 2.