ENCE Announces End of an Era with Bankruptcy Decision After 13 Years in Esports

ENCE has announced that its board of directors has decided to file for bankruptcy, ending the Finnish organisation’s 13-year run in esports.

“After 13 years, the Board of Directors of ENCE eSports Oy has made the difficult decision to file for bankruptcy,” the org wrote on their X post. They thanked players, staff, and partners before addressing the fans who stood by it through every victory and defeat. “None of this would have been possible without you,” the statement continued.

Financial losses preceded the bankruptcy decision

ENCE didn’t explain the reasons behind their decision. Separate reporting, however, points to financial problems before the farewell.

Finnish newspaper Iltalehti reported that ENCE recorded more than €1.6 million in losses over the previous two years. Another report states the org lost almost €940,000 in 2025 and finished that year with less than €2,000 in its bank account.

ENCE leaves behind a memorable Counter-Strike legacy

ENCE’s biggest breakthrough came with its Finnish lineup led by Aleksi “Aleksib” Virolainen, which reached the Counter-Strike: Global Offensive IEM Katowice Major final in 2019.

Photo via ESL / Adela-Sznajder

Its influence also reached beyond tournament results through “EZ4ENCE,” the tribute song by Finnish duo The Verkkars. The track celebrated the Finnish roster and became closely associated with its 2019 breakthrough. Valve added it to CS:GO as an official music kit in March that year.

The org later enjoyed another successful period with an international roster led by Marco “Snappi” Pfeiffer in 2023. At the time of the bankruptcy announcement, the team ranked 103rd in the global Valve Regional Standings.

Former ENCE players pay tribute after bankruptcy announcement

Former ENCE player SunPayus was among those who responded to the farewell, sharing a short message about his time with the organisation. “Always in my heart, such a good period I spent there.” he wrote beneath the announcement.

Allu, who previously represented ENCE as a player before returning as head coach in June 2026, described himself as “Heartbroken.” He also said further details about his future and the team would follow.

“I will make a more detailed statement on what’s up with myself and our team when the dust settles a bit,” allu wrote. ENCE’s announcement offered no details about player contracts or whether the roster will continue together.