Riot Games Opens Tier 1 League of Legends and Valorant to Esports Betting Sponsorships

On June 26, 2025, Riot Games published a press release announcing that the company is allowing esports betting brands to pursue a partnership with teams in tier 1 esports. According to the company, this move will make the esports scene of League of Legends and Valorant a lot more sustainable.

Riot Games added that the program will support the growth of tier-2 esports teams. “A portion of Riot’s revenues earned from the sports betting program will be invested back into Tier 2,” the press release said. The investment will increase prize pools in tournaments, develop additional integrity systems and expand training and education programs for partner tournament operators and aspiring pros.

The company also announced that it is putting sufficient guardrails in place to make sure that they safeguard the ecosystem it’s built and “position it for long-term success.” This includes vetting and approving esports betting companies before being able to pursue a partnership with the teams.

While the move is controversial, with people in the replies of the X post showing disapproval, Riot Games was prepared for this kind of reception. The company has also argued that esports betting has always existed in their game, and its decision to engage with it is much better than just leaving it unregulated.

Finally, Riot Games clarified that the main broadcast stream for both games will not be promoting betting sites. Esports jerseys will also be prohibited from having esports betting partner logos on them.