Maksym Krippa sets a new trajectory for the development of the Ukrainian Esports Federation

The entrepreneur behind some of the most high-profile projects in Ukrainian video games and esports, Maksym Krippa, has been appointed the new president of the Ukrainian Esports Federation. He has a track record that includes the legendary NAVI, Maincast studio, and the landmark acquisition of GSC Game World, known for its S.T.A.L.K.E.R. series.

His appointment comes at a time when Ukraine’s esports scene is at a crossroads. Once valued at $20–30 million, the market is now forced to adapt to a new reality that requires not cosmetic changes but a profound restructuring.

Krippa’s rise to prominence symbolizes the desire for a systemic reboot: from infrastructure upgrades to the formation of a fundamentally different approach to attracting young people to professional esports. The focus is on efficiency, technological breakthroughs, and a stable future.

In an interview with Forbes Ukraine, Krippa confirmed his new role, emphasizing his ambition not only to keep the Federation afloat, but also to transform it into a player that will set the tone for the development of esports in the region. Given his experience and extensive resources, expectations for the new president are extremely high.

UESF reform: new management and updated development strategy

An official announcement regarding personnel changes at the Ukrainian Esports Federation (UESF) is expected in the near future. According to available information, the position of executive director will be filled by an expert with a solid background in organizing tournaments and streamlining internal processes.

The federation is actively forming a new management team, bringing together specialists from the most authoritative structures of the Ukrainian esports scene — Natus Vincere and Maincast. The team includes managers, analysts, coaches, and broadcast specialists who know firsthand how the industry works in practice.

This team reboot demonstrates the UESF’s desire to strengthen ties with the professional community and focus on its standards. The focus on people with real experience should give new impetus to the development of the industry, strengthen its institutional stability, and take Ukrainian esports to a whole new level.

Course for renewal: how much will it cost to reboot the Federation and what does the new team plan to do

The previous leadership of the Federation estimated that at least $1.5–2 million would need to be invested each year for an effective restart and stable development of the organization.

“Maksym has serious resources. I believe that his team will be able to implement what we had only planned,” commented the former head.

The current head of the Federation, Maksym Krippa, notes that a clear strategy is still being finalized. At the same time, certain priorities have already been identified. At the forefront is active cooperation with the e-sports community and support for relevant initiatives in schools and universities.

Ambitious plans also include expanding the list of disciplines that will operate under the auspices of the Federation and creating an open, transparent system of regular national championships. According to Krippa, it is on the basis of these competitions that a national team will be formed to represent Ukraine on the international stage.