Vitality have secured the long-term futures of Mathieu “ZywOo” Herbaut and Dan “apEX” Madesclaire. The French duo have extended their contracts with the organization through 2028.
The decision keeps two of Vitality’s defining figures together for several more seasons. It also gives the team stability after a highly successful period in Counter-Strike.
Nearly Eight Years With Vitality
ZywOo and apEX have spent almost eight years with Vitality. They first played together in the organization’s French roster before Vitality gradually built its current international lineup.
Their partnership has included both major successes and difficult moments. However, the team has become one of the strongest forces in Counter-Strike since Robin “ropz” Kool joined the roster in January 2025.
A Trophy-Filled Era
Vitality won 14 trophies after adding ropz to the team. This run included Major victories in Austin and Budapest, as well as two Intel Grand Slam titles.
The team also set five major goals during its recent period together. Vitality completed four of them by winning the first Grand Slam, the Austin Major, the Budapest Major, and the second Grand Slam in Rio. The only target they did not reach was the title at IEM Cologne.
Recent Setback and Paris Focus
Despite their achievements, Vitality had a difficult end to the season by their own high standards. The team also lost to Liquid in the opening round of the online stage of BLAST Bounty.
Meanwhile, Vitality are preparing for the Esports World Cup in Paris. The tournament carries special importance because it will take place in the organization’s home country. Vitality previously won the BLAST.tv Paris Major in 2023.
Vitality’s Long-Term Core
The extensions secure two players at different stages of their careers. ZywOo, 25, has spent his entire tier-one career with Vitality and could remain with one organization throughout his playing career.
ApEX, 33, will be nearly 36 when the new agreement ends. Nevertheless, the veteran in-game leader remains part of Vitality’s plans as the team aims to add more Major titles and trophies before 2028.
