Former CrossFire pro Zhao “Xlele” Yanbo has officially joined Trace Esports’ VALORANT roster, marking his transition from one competitive FPS title to another. The Chinese organization announced the signing on Weibo, praising Xlele’s resilience and skill, describing him as a player with untapped potential ready to shine.
The move follows a successful trial period where Xlele demonstrated sharp mechanical skill and adaptability, key traits for VALORANT’s fast-paced gameplay. This marks his first official venture into the VALORANT competitive scene, adding fresh firepower to VCT China.
From CrossFire to VALORANT: A New Challenge
Before stepping into VALORANT, Xlele built his reputation in CrossFire, a tactical FPS that has dominated China’s esports landscape since its 2008 release. Developed by Smilegate Entertainment and published by Tencent, the game remains a powerhouse in the region.
Xlele’s competitive career in CrossFire took off in 2021, with notable victories including the Breaking Waves Cup in 2023. After a stint with KINGZERO-eSports, he stepped back from competition in April 2024—only to return now with a new game and team.
What’s Next for Trace Esports?
Trace Esports currently fields a full roster, including recent addition Zhang “midi” Jiajun. With the team missing out on Masters Toronto, they now have until July 3rd to finalize their lineup for VCT China Stage 2. While Xlele’s role isn’t yet confirmed, his signing signals Trace’s commitment to strengthening their squad.
Xlele isn’t the first CrossFire veteran to switch to VALORANT. Players like Li “Lsn” Sinan have successfully made the transition, proving that tactical FPS experience translates well between games.