Why Riot is now allowing betting sponsors in League, Valorant

Riot Games is announcing a change in its betting sponsorship policy, allowing sports betting sponsors for both pro League of Legends and Valorant esports teams moving forward in a decision that better aligns these games with other popular esports disciplines.

Betting sponsors have been prohibited and in some corners of esports for many years now. While betting and gambling companies play a significant role in competitive scenes around such popular games as Counter-Strike 2 and Dota 2, publisher Riot Games had largely kept its own titles removed from that space. Now, that’s all changing.

Riot announced a new betting sponsorship category for both LoL and Valorant through which Tier 1 Americas and EMEA teams can explore options for such sponsorships. Riot has also established safeguards to ensure utmost integrity and transparency to avoid any potential issues following the move.

Why did Riot create a betting sponsorship category?

Riot stated that its pro teams have long advocated for betting sponsors, and the new category will give teams better financial opportunities both now and moving into the future.

The first thing Riot clarified in its open letter is the fact that betting companies are a large part of the culture despite being prohibited from sponsoring teams in its games to date. Riot explained that fans are interacting with betting companies regardless of their place in a given esports scene, and it would be better if official sponsors provided these services. This could potentially reduce the risk for fans and limit the chances of wrongdoing.

Riot claims safeguards will be put in place to protect teams, players, and fans. The developer stated that partner teams will be able to generate more revenue with this new sponsorship category, which can ensure a more prosperous future for pro League of Legends and Valorant. New policies will be created to protect the integrity of the teams, players, and fans, and betting activities will be monitored to ensure that no policy is violated and the competitive integrity of these esports spaces is maintained.

Potential betting sponsors will be vetted by Riot and undergo levels of scrutiny to ensure their compliance. The sponsors can only pursue teams after they are approved by Riot. Sponsors will also be required to use GRID to provide official data. Riot has asked teams to work with it in ensuring integrity isn’t compromised, players and young audiences are safe, and betting activities are conducted responsibly.

In the interest of offering viewers what the company believes to be a superior viewing experience, Riot-owned broadcasts and social media still won’t display betting ads during live pro games. Betting logos will also not be displayed on team jerseys. Riot stated that teams can individually decide how much sports betting content they display, and that it’s up to the teams to ensure they meet the guidelines of the sponsorship program, content platform guidelines, and any relevant local regulations.