Riot Games Opens Betting Partnerships for LoL and Valorant Esports Teams in 2025

Riot Games has announced a groundbreaking betting partnership update for League of Legends (LoL) and Valorant esports teams: starting in 2025, partnered teams will be allowed to collaborate with approved betting platforms. This decision aims to unlock new revenue opportunities while maintaining the competitive integrity and fan-centric experience of Riot’s esports ecosystem.

Hey all – saw some chatter about policies with teams and betting platforms these past few days, and thought some context could be helpful.

A few weeks ago, we told partnered LoL Esports and VCT teams in Americas and EMEA that starting in 2025, they’ll be allowed to explore…

— Whalen Rozelle (@RiotMagus) December 16, 2024

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What This Means for LoL and Valorant Esports Teams

The announcement, made by Riot Games’ COO of Esports, Whalen Rozelle, signifies a shift in Riot’s sponsorship policies, allowing teams in the League of Legends Esports (LoL Esports) and the Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) to explore partnerships in the betting category. However, this development comes with strict guidelines to ensure fairness and integrity:

1. Riot-Owned Channels Stay Betting-Free
   Riot has clarified that its official channels will not display any betting-related content. This includes broadcasts, social media, and team jerseys, keeping the esports experience free of betting promotions for fans.
2. Rigorous Vetting of Betting Partners
   Riot will thoroughly vet potential betting partners to meet standards for integrity, transparency, and fan engagement. Approved partners must also comply with local regulatory and licensing requirements and adhere to Riot’s strict rules for content and promotions.

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Why Riot Made This Decision

Riot’s COO, Whalen Rozelle, explained that this policy shift was the result of careful study and planning. It is intended to help esports teams secure new revenue streams in a challenging financial landscape. Rozelle emphasized that the company’s primary focus remains on protecting the integrity of competitions and ensuring a high-quality experience for fans.

“This decision wasn’t made lightly,” Rozelle stated. “We’ll learn a lot along the way, and we’ll make changes if at any point this compromises the integrity of the sport or impacts the high-quality experience our fans have today.”

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Key Guidelines for Betting Partnerships

To ensure this initiative benefits teams without detracting from the esports ecosystem, Riot has established the following key guidelines:

• No Betting Promotions on Official Platforms
  Riot-owned platforms, including broadcasts, social media channels, and in-game features, will remain entirely free of betting advertisements or branding.
• Approval Process for Betting Brands
  Only Riot-approved betting platforms will be allowed to partner with esports teams. These platforms must meet stringent requirements for safety, transparency, and fan engagement.
• Global Compliance Standards
  All sportsbooks must comply with local regulations and licensing laws. This ensures that partnerships align with both Riot’s values and regional legal frameworks.

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A Step Toward Growth in Esports Sponsorships

Riot’s decision to allow betting partnerships marks a significant milestone for LoL and Valorant esports. The move reflects an evolving sponsorship landscape, where teams face increasing pressure to secure sustainable revenue streams. By cautiously embracing betting sponsorships, Riot hopes to address financial challenges while maintaining its commitment to integrity and fan enjoyment.

Rozelle also hinted that this is only the beginning of Riot’s approach to betting partnerships. Depending on the success of the initial rollout, Riot may explore opportunities to refine or expand its policy in the future.

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Fan-Centric and Integrity-Driven Approach

While the decision opens new financial avenues, Riot remains steadfast in its mission to prioritize the esports experience for fans. The company is clear that any actions compromising the sport’s integrity or negatively affecting fans will prompt immediate adjustments.

“We’ll make changes if at any point this compromises the integrity of the sport or impacts the high-quality experience our fans have today,” Rozelle assured.

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The Road Ahead

As 2025 approaches, Riot’s careful implementation of betting partnerships will be closely monitored by the esports community. This initiative could pave the way for other major gaming companies to explore similar opportunities, further professionalizing the esports industry.

For all the latest updates on League of Legends and Valorant esports, visit AllValorant.gg and LoLNOW.gg. Stay informed about the evolving landscape of competitive gaming and what it means for fans and players alike.

Frequently Asked Questions about Riot’s Betting Partnerships