OG Esports, one of the most iconic organizations in Dota 2 history, is reportedly facing serious financial trouble. A recently disclosed financial report reveals a staggering net loss of €3.4 million ($3.7 million) over the past two years, sparking concern among fans and raising questions about the organization’s long-term sustainability.
Founded in 2015, OG shot to global fame with back-to-back victories at The International in 2018 and 2019 — a feat unmatched in Dota 2 history. However, despite its legendary status and massive brand value, OG appears to be struggling to maintain its financial footing.
Breakdown of the Losses
The report highlights losses of €1.9 million in 2022 and an additional €1.5 million in 2023. While OG did see a slight increase in revenue, reaching around €900,000 in 2023, it was not enough to offset its growing expenses. A significant chunk of these costs reportedly went to player salaries, operational overhead, content creation, and maintaining a competitive roster across multiple titles.
OG’s management has not yet publicly addressed the findings, but analysts believe the organization is at risk unless immediate restructuring or investment is secured. Unlike franchise-based esports models in games like Valorant or League of Legends, Dota 2 organizations often rely heavily on tournament winnings and sponsorships — both of which have declined in recent years for many teams.
OG’s Legacy and Future
OG’s brand has long been associated with innovation, teamwork, and underdog success stories. The team’s core — including players like N0tail, Ceb, and Topson — has inspired millions. But since the golden era, roster changes and inconsistent performance have affected both the team’s results and its marketability.
The organization has also invested in content creation and talent development, aiming to diversify beyond tournament earnings. However, in a volatile esports economy, even diversified strategies have proven difficult to sustain without steady revenue streams or major backers.
What Happens Next?
With the esports industry facing broader financial challenges — including layoffs, reduced VC funding, and dwindling sponsorship deals — OG’s situation is not unique. Yet, the organization’s symbolic importance to the Dota 2 community makes its potential downfall particularly impactful.
If OG fails to secure new funding or cut costs drastically, the organization could face operational shutdown or be forced into a major restructuring. For now, fans around the world are holding their breath, hoping that one of the most beloved names in esports can weather the storm and stage yet another comeback — this time, outside the game.
Leave a Reply