trace on removal from Astralis: "I personally believe it was a mistake to let me go"

The Dane was clear about his feelings on Astralis' decision as he announced his free agency.

Martin "⁠trace⁠" Heldt announced his free agency on Saturday, with the news coming more than three months after he was removed as the head coach of Astralis.

The Dane was brought into the Astralis fold in January 2022 as the coach for Astralis Talent, but was quickly promoted to take the reigns for the main team in March due to Alexander "⁠ave⁠" Holdt's ineligibility to stand behind the squad at Majors.

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During trace's tenure with the Danish organization, the roster experienced a few highs, such as a semi-final appearance at IEM Cologne, but generally struggled to contend for trophies. The 32-year-old coach was ultimately removed after the team failed to qualify for the IEM Rio Major.

Speaking to HLTV about his time on Astralis, the 1.6 legend reflected on the results they achieved, why the team struggled to kick on, and his feelings about being let go.

"There was a bit of turmoil and imbalances in and around the team, which I believe had a negative impact on the results," trace stated. "With that said, I do believe our results in my time there was what one could expect, perhaps we even did better than what we should have, keeping in mind the team and composition of players at the time - which is why I personally believe it was a mistake to let me go. I do respect their decision, and there are no hard feelings between us."

He also talked about the different things he learned while under the Astralis banner, including managing multi-Major champions and the pressure he experienced as the head coach of a large organization.

"The main thing is definitely being head coach and in charge of one of the biggest orgs, if not the biggest, and the pressure that comes with it. How to coach 5 different players, some with Major trophies, with different personalities and how to get the best out of everyone and make the team work together and be in sync.

"Also how every player has a different approach to the game and different ideas and ways to play. I have my own view of the game, but the sparring and how to come up with the best solutions together with such clever players really broadens your perspective. Everyone learns something from each other."

Finally, trace stated that he was open to leadership roles outside of head coaching. "I am now looking for a position as head coach, but it could also be another position in which I can contribute with my leadership, initiative and knowledge, so I can support and help a new team reach their full potential and rise to the top. I keep an open mind."