One of the world’s most well-known esports organizations, Fnatic, are exploring a potential partial or full sale. According to Sky News journalist Mark Kleinman, the London-based club could be valued at up to $100 million (£74.7 million).
Interest from sports and media
Exclusive: The esports team Fnatic is exploring a minority investment or outright sale that could value it at $100m (£74.7m) after receiving approaches from at least two potential bidders, with the sports advisory firm Oakwell hired to field interest. https://t.co/mTc7AKMxTS
— Mark Kleinman (@MarkKleinmanSky) December 19, 2025
The report states that investors from the sports and media sectors have shown interest in Fnatic. They see the organization as a flagship esports brand and a way to reach a young, global audience. Both minority investments and a full acquisition remain possible options.
Sky News also notes that Fnatic are close to breaking even in the current financial year. This improves the organization’s appeal to potential buyers and adds important context to the talks.
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Fnatic’s history and scale
Fnatic were founded in 2004 by Sam Mathews and his mother, Anne. The organization gained global recognition in 2011 after winning the first-ever League of Legends World Championship. Since then, the brand has become one of the most recognizable names in Western esports.
Alongside Counter-Strike 2, Fnatic field teams in League of Legends, VALORANT, Apex Legends, Rainbow Six, and other titles. The organization also launched its own hardware division, Fnatic Gear. It sold more than one million peripherals before transferring its performance product line to Sony.
Fnatic have partnered with global brands such as Gucci and Hello Kitty. They operate offices in London, Berlin, and Tokyo. The organization was also among the first Western teams to open a dedicated training facility in South Korea.
Why now?
A potential deal could give Fnatic fresh capital to scale their operations. The funds could also help strengthen competitive divisions, especially in CS2. The organization have not won a major title in the game for several years, despite remaining a consistent presence at the top level.
Fnatic founder Sam Mathews told Sky News:
As a global leader in competitive gaming, we constantly evaluate strategic opportunities to expand our international footprint and improve performance. We remain open to financing options that align with our long-term vision for the growth of esports and gaming.
Community reaction: skepticism over valuation and CS2 concerns
The reported $100 million valuation sparked skepticism across the community, particularly among Counter-Strike fans. Many questioned whether Fnatic’s recent CS2 results justify such a figure. Some comments suggested the organization relies more on its legacy than on current success.
Others raised concerns about Fnatic’s identity under potential new ownership. Fans worried that new investors could reduce the focus on Counter-Strike. At the same time, some pointed out Fnatic’s strong commercial position and success across multiple esports titles beyond CS2.
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A successful year competitively
Despite off-server discussions, 2025 was a strong competitive year for Fnatic. The organization qualified for its ninth League of Legends World Championship. Their VALORANT roster also reached the grand final of Valorant Champions 2025 in Paris, played in front of more than 15,000 fans.
Fnatic have not confirmed any specific deal so far. However, hiring Oakwell Advisory signals the start of a major strategic phase. It could become one of the most significant shifts in the history of European esports.
