NIP official statement: 23-year-old rifler Cairne has been relegated to the bench.

NIP's CS2 division announced on Saturday that 23-year-old Ukrainian rifler Artem Musinsky (ID: cairne) has been relegated to the bench. All indications suggest this change is directly related to NIP's failure to qualify for the 2026 IEM Cologne.

In response to NIP's decision, Cairne said via the X platform: "Although the result is disappointing, I still want to thank the whole team for the opportunity they gave me and for the time we spent together."

“We have put in a lot of effort in recent months to try to get our tactical positioning in sync. We have had many frank exchanges, made adjustments, and tried to find a system that allows me to perform at my best while also contributing to the team’s goals.”

"Unfortunately, we gradually realized that there were some key differences between the two sides in their basic understanding of the game. What the team ultimately needed was not entirely consistent with my characteristics as a player, and I respect that decision."

"As for myself, I am full of confidence and motivation, and I am ready for the challenges ahead. Now, I will actively explore new opportunities."

"Thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way—it means a lot to me."

Cairne previously played for CS teams such as DASH, TNL, and Inner Circle. In early 2026, he replaced Michel Pinto (ID: ewjerkz) in NIP's starting lineup. To date, he has played 91 maps and participated in 1994 rounds for NIP, achieving an average personal rating of 1.03, and winning the championship with the team in the 6th season of the Roman Empire Cup and the 2nd season of the Stake ranked tournament.

With Cairne relegated to the bench, NIP's current roster is as follows:

Commander: Marco Fever (ID: Snappi)

Support: Rasmus Baker (ID: sjuush)

Rifleman: Kacper Gabala (ID: xKacpersky)

Rifleman: Martin Lund (ID: stavn)

Coach: Richard Lanstrom (ID: Xizt)

Substitute: Michel Pinto (ID: ewjerkz)

Substitute: Artem Moroz (ID: r1nkle)

Substitute: Artem Musinskiy (ID: cairne)

Image source: Internet