Astralis bid farewell to br0 as device returns to action

br0 enters free agency ahead of the 2025 season.

Astralis have confirmed the mutual termination of Alexander “br0” Bro’s contract, allowing the 22-year-old to explore opportunities with other teams. Meanwhile, Nicolai “device” Reedtz has officially rejoined the roster after stepping away from the game during the Perfect World Shanghai Major Europe RMR due to “stress-related health challenges.”

“Having taken time to prioritize his physical and mental health, dev1ce is now fully prepared to return to the team,” read an official statement from Astralis. “Starting in early 2025, he will return as the squad regroups following the holidays.”

On br0’s departure, Astralis expressed gratitude for his contributions. “We want to acknowledge the significant role br0 played during a difficult period for Astralis,” the organization stated. “Despite limited preparation, he stepped up during the RMR, giving his utmost effort for the team. We’ve agreed to part ways together mutually, and we thank him for his professionalism and dedication.”

br0 joined Astralis earlier this year after the team failed to qualify for the PGL Major Copenhagen. He replaced Benjamin “blameF” Bremer, facilitating a roster adjustment that placed Martin “stavn” Lund and Jakob “jabbi” Nygaard in their preferred roles, with device taking on the in-game leader (IGL) duties.

The changes initially led to promising results, with semi-final finishes at IEM Chengdu and ESL Pro League Season 19. However, Astralis’ performance declined after the player break, as they missed the playoffs at IEM Cologne and ESL Pro League Season 20.

Ahead of the Shanghai Major cycle, Astralis made further adjustments, bringing in Casper “cadiaN” Møller to relieve device of his IGL responsibilities. This move saw br0 benched to accommodate cadiaN, sparking controversy due to Astralis’ use of BLAST’s emergency substitution rules to fast-track cadiaN onto their roster for the BLAST Fall Final.

br0’s benching could have been more lived. Just days before the RMR for the Perfect World Shanghai Major, the device was withdrawn from the team due to health issues, and br0 was recalled. Despite his efforts, Astralis struggled to adjust to the sudden loss of their AWPer and failed to qualify.

Reflecting on the year, br0 shared his thoughts on his free agency via X: “2024 was a learning experience, filled with challenges. I’m looking ahead to 2025, which offers new opportunities to achieve my dreams.”