Recently, Vitality founder Neo was interviewed extensively by a French media outlet. Here is an excerpt from the interview.
Q: Let’s start with the latest news – Vitality has renewed its contract with Mathieu Herbaut | ZywOo until 2026. What does this mean for you?
A: Retaining a phenomenon like ZywOo ensures the future victories and glory of Vitality. We are equipped to support him throughout his career, and that’s the confidence we have in our organization. We signed ZywOo when he was just 18, and now he’s 23. A lot has happened since then, including individual accolades and team championships. Our partnership has been successful and enduring, and we both want it to continue.
Q: CS is now a significant part of the club. Is the CS division driving Vitality’s growth?
A: Yes, since 2018, we’ve won at least one major title every year, crafting our DNA along the way. We know what we want to achieve, which sets us apart from other games. In other divisions, we’re not as mature in management. In CS, however, we always find solutions, integrate players, and make them believe in our vision. When new members join, they enter a well-established system. Unlike in League of Legends, where we don’t have that dynamic…
Financially, being among the Top 3 CS teams is as challenging as winning the LEC in League of Legends. Both moments are memorable, and now is the perfect opportunity.
Q: You’re making economic choices, especially in CS.
A: The timing isn’t right for aggressive expansion; it’s about being cautious and seeking financial balance. Who can be Vitality’s ambassador, create international impact, and help us achieve our goals in terms of economy, competition, and recognition? Only the CS division and ZywOo.
When investing, it’s best to bet on stable value. Though we might owe others, ZywOo is the player we won’t shortchange. He represents the club the most and contributes significantly to our international profile.
Q: Does winning the Major elevate Vitality to another level?
A: Major championships have their role. Despite struggles in League of Legends, we’ve become an international club. Before the Major, League of Legends absorbed many resources, but after, we adjusted. When traveling abroad, people congratulate us. Honestly, it’s paradoxical because domestically, Vitality faces criticism.
Q: Over time, does it prove the wisdom of Vitality’s internationalization?
A: We’ve always aimed to build a world-class team, so internationalization was necessary. Other new clubs are transitioning faster. However, we strive to maintain connections with France since our headquarters remain in Paris.
CS is a successful case, with many French/French-speaking players. But in Rocket League, this dynamic is changing, as there’s no such combination.
Q: Your iconic players are still ZywOo, zen (recent Rocket League world champion)…
A: I’m still involved in talent scouting. I often find French players during discussions. Snatching zen was possible because I took a chance while others didn’t. With ZywOo, we built a relationship with his family, allowing him to continue his high school education. This prepared him for his professional career.
Q: It feels like walking through an open door. Is 2023 the best year in Vitality’s ten-year history?
A: It’s the best and worst. Losing Twisten was the lowest point – it devastated us all. Mental health in esports is more fragile than we think.
For me, I strive to be the leader I aspire to be, acknowledging my imperfections while pursuing my dream of keeping the club alive and independent. I hope Vitality becomes a legendary club that stands the test of time.