Ukrainian coach Andrii “B1ad3” Horodenskyi ranks among the highest-paid mentors in Counter-Strike. A former NAVI operator revealed that his salary matches Danny “zonic” Sørensen’s contract at Falcons. The news created a stir in the community because it involves two of the most respected coaches in CS history.
Insider: a salary like a top-tier player
The insider once asked NAVI staff if they feared losing B1ad3 to Falcons, who can offer massive contracts. They replied:
His salary is already at the level of Falcons’ coach. Other clubs cannot match it. His deal equals the income of tier-one players.
This means B1ad3 is one of the few coaches who earn the same as top professional players.
Why B1ad3 is so valuable
B1ad3 joined NAVI in 2019 and built the system that led the team to global dominance. Under his leadership, NAVI won PGL Major Stockholm 2021, becoming the first team ever to lift a Major without losing a single map.
He focuses on deep strategy, developing young players, and creating long-term structure. Even after the departure of s1mple and several roster rebuilds between 2023 and 2025, B1ad3 remains the main strategic mind of the club.
Comparison with zonic
Danny “zonic” Sørensen is one of the most decorated coaches in Counter-Strike. He won four Majors with Astralis and later guided Vitality to victory at the BLAST.tv Paris Major 2023.
The fact that B1ad3 now earns a salary on the same level highlights his status as one of the most valuable coaches in modern esports.
Community reaction
The news triggered heated debates among fans. Opinions split quickly:
Supporters:
- “Well deserved. He’s a genius. He should earn even more.”
- “Of course deserved, the best coach in the world.”
- “Absolutely deserved.”
Critics:
- “High salary for what? He can’t replace IM, AleksiB, or an AWPer. The team looks weak.”
- “Easy money for stroking a beard and shouting ‘nice boys’.”
- “NAVI’s coach doesn’t seem to help.”
Mixed views:
Strange that he earns as much as zonic. But his achievements justify it.
Overall, the community agrees on B1ad3’s huge contribution to NAVI, but some doubt if the current results justify such costs.
What’s next
NAVI are in the middle of a CS2 rebuild. However, no matter how the roster changes, one fact remains clear: Andrii Horodenskyi is the central figure in the team’s structure, and his contract shows just how highly he is valued worldwide.
