Insania retirement : Aydin “Insania” Sarkohi’s retirement from competitive Dota 2 is one of those moments that hit harder than expected. It’s not just the departure of a captain—it’s the quiet exit of a leader whose voice guided Team Liquid through countless triumphs and heartbreaks. His decision, announced after six remarkable years with Liquid, signals both an ending and a reflection point for the Dota 2 scene. Much like Puppey and KuroKy before him, Insania’s legacy isn’t measured solely by trophies but by the consistency and culture he built within his team.
From Humble Beginnings to a Champion’s Mindset – Insania retirement
Insania’s journey began long before his captaincy defined Liquid’s golden years. From his early days in Ninjas in Pyjamas to the now-famous “Gyrocopter incident” during TI9 with Alliance, every setback forged a sharper, more grounded leader. When he joined Team Liquid, his focus on trust and cohesion turned a roster of young talents into a powerhouse that reached three Major finals and, ultimately, lifted the Aegis at The International 2024.
| Key Milestones | Year | Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| Joined Team Liquid | 2019 | Took over as captain |
| First Major Grand Final | 2022 | 2nd place finish |
| TI 2024 Victory | 2024 | Captured Aegis of Champions |
| PGL Wallachia Title | 2025 | Won Liquid’s last title with Insania |
| Announced Retirement | 2025 | Transition to new role expected |
What Made Insania’s Leadership Unique – Insania retirement
What made Insania stand out was not just his drafting mind—it was his emotional intelligence. He cultivated stability in an esport defined by volatility. Under his leadership, Liquid became known for calm decision-making even in chaotic games. Insania was the emotional anchor, the one who could defuse tilt with a few grounded words. It’s no coincidence that several of his teammates—Nisha, zai, and Boxi—consistently praised his ability to keep morale high even when results dipped.
Why His Retirement Feels So Personal
Liquid now faces a transitional phase. Replacing Insania isn’t as simple as finding another support or in-game leader—it’s about finding a personality capable of maintaining Liquid’s identity. His departure leaves questions: Who takes the mantle? Will the next captain continue his analytical approach or bring a more aggressive edge? Historically, teams like OG and Secret faced similar crossroads when their leaders stepped back, often requiring seasons to regain equilibrium.
What Comes Next for Team Liquid and the Dota Scene
Insania’s retirement also reflects a maturing esports ecosystem. More players are stepping away at their peak, choosing mental health and longevity over burnout. The Dota 2 community’s overwhelmingly positive response to his decision shows how far the scene has evolved—from glorifying endless grind to valuing human balance. This shift, in part, stems from captains like Insania, who prioritized sustainable growth over short-term results.
A Captain’s Legacy That Endures – Insania retirement
Insania’s next chapter—whether in coaching, analysis, or casting—will likely keep him close to the game he helped define. His departure is not a goodbye but a transition. Dota 2’s competitive fabric may change, but his influence on how leadership is understood within the scene will persist. For every fan who witnessed his rise from analyst to Aegis-winning captain, Insania’s name will forever symbolize poise, empathy, and excellence.
