ESL FACEIT Group (EFG) has reportedly carried out another round of layoffs as part of its ongoing efforts to streamline operations and ensure long-term profitability. Around 80 to 90 employees are understood to have been let go.
An internal email sent to employees, and obtained by Esports Insider, outlined the company’s reasoning behind the decision.
Image Credit: ESL FACEIT Group
The memo described the layoffs as part of a “strategic realignment” following a year-long review aimed at simplifying operations and focusing on areas with the “biggest growth potential.”
It said:
“Since the creation of EFG, our business has nearly tripled allowing us to create experiences that we could never have imagined. This rapid growth requires continuous investment, but also introduces complexity and inefficiency over time. To ensure we can grow sustainably and keep investing in our vision for the long term, we must consolidate our options.
“Over the past year, we conducted a comprehensive review to make the business fit for purpose. This was not solely about cost-cutting, but a strategic realignment to reduce complexity, streamline operations, and focus resources on areas with the biggest growth potential. These steps are necessary to help us achieve long-term sustainability.
“Unfortunately, this involved incredibly tough choices, and we will be saying goodbye to some valued colleagues. Those impacted have received separate communications. Please be supportive, gracious, and understanding as these changes take effect.
“Critically, this marks the end of this phase of change. With these foundations in place, we don’t anticipate any further changes of this scale.”
Less Layoffs than Reported?
EFG currently runs major projects like the Esports World Cup. Image Credit: ESL FACEIT Group
In August 2025, it was reported that another round of layoffs was being prepared, with early estimates suggesting that between 200 and 300 roles could be impacted.
According to one source familiar with the matter, the latest cuts were not confined to a single department but appear to have hit the EMEA division hardest.
The company, which is majority-owned by the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF), has now entered what leadership describes as a “sustainably structured” phase, with hopes to avoid additional layoffs before 2026. The PIF also announced plans to acquire Electronic Arts for $55 billion alongside a consortium of investors.
“We have faced the hard decisions, and now, with a clear direction and efficient structure, we can shift our full energy to building the future of esports,” the email concluded.