The lively world of esports, where planning meets spectacle, possibly welcoming gambling sponsors into its fold. A recent rumor suggests that Riot Games might be rethinking its long-held stance against such partnerships as we approach 2025. It’s a fascinating twist in the narrative.
After years of maintaining a firm boundary around sponsorships, Riot is considering allowing select gambling companies to sponsor teams in League of Legends and VALORANT. Imagine the conversations swirling around this potential change. It’s like watching your favorite character make an unexpected choice in a plot twist!
Let’s explore why this matters more deeply. Esports betting accounts for nearly half of the industry’s revenue! Yes, you heard that right, half! The other half comes from ticket sales, sponsorship deals, broadcast rights, merchandise sales, and various investments. It’s quite a lucrative business model. So naturally, many esports organizations have sought partnerships with gambling brands.
Recently, social media personality ‘Montecristo’ shared an intriguing claim regarding Riot’s plans for 2025:
Riot will be allowing esports teams to have betting sponsors in League of Legends and VALORANT in 2025.
Gambling companies interested in sponsoring teams will have to be approved by Riot and will not be allowed to place logos on team uniforms.
— MonteCristo (@MonteCristo) December 13, 2024
Riot will allow esports teams to have betting sponsors in League of Legends and VALORANT in 2025. Gambling companies interested in sponsoring teams will have to be approved by Riot and will not be allowed to place logos on team uniforms.
Historically speaking, some prominent names in esports betting are like GG.BET and Betway have carved out significant visibility alongside major tournaments. With these changes on the horizon, one can’t help but wonder if Riot wants a slice of that pie while exploring some murky ethical waters.
If you’re pondering what this could mean for players or fans, it’s certainly worth discussing! Could we see more controversies surrounding player conduct? Or perhaps new planning is emerging as teams adapt to these sponsorships? I’d love to hear your thoughts!