Riot Games has officially confirmed rumors that have been circulating: starting in 2025, teams competing in VALORANT and League of Legends will be allowed to partner with betting sponsors. Several employees at Riot Games revealed that teams in their VALORANT Champions Tour (VCT) and LoL Esports ecosystem would have the opportunity to seek sponsorship deals with betting companies. However, these partnerships will be subject to strict guidelines and conditions.

Details from Riot’s Esports Leadership

In a statement, Riot Magus, COO of Esports at Riot Games, confirmed the policy change and provided further context: “Several weeks ago, we informed teams in the LoL Esports and VCT regions of the Americas and EMEA that they will be allowed to explore partnerships with Riot-approved betting platforms,” Magus stated. He emphasized that the decision was not made lightly, describing it as a strategic move to open new revenue streams for esports organizations. Magus also highlighted two key restrictions for any potential betting partnerships:

Riot-owned Channels to Remain Betting-Free

Rigorous Approval Process

A Controversial Move in Esports brought by a complex economic context

Including betting companies as sponsors in esports has long been a polarizing issue. While such partnerships are common in games like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Riot Games has historically taken a firm stance against allowing teams or events to collaborate with betting companies. Even in 2023, when rumors surfaced about the potential for betting sponsors in VALORANT, Riot swiftly dismissed them.

Riot’s decision comes amid a broader shift in the esports industry, where betting sponsorships are increasingly common. However, the company’s cautious approach reflects a desire to balance potential financial benefits with maintaining a high standard of integrity in its ecosystem. While teams will now have the opportunity to secure lucrative sponsorship deals, they must ensure compliance with Riot’s regulations and local gambling laws.