Riot Games Partners with Esports World Cup: Valorant and LoL
Riot Games has officially signed a three-year partnership with the Esports World Cup Foundation, bringing Valorant, League of Legends, and Teamfight Tactics to the 2025 Esports World Cup in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This major agreement promises to boost Valorant's competitive scene while expanding Riot’s esports presence globally.
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Valorant Joins Esports World Cup LineupThe inclusion of Valorant in the Esports World Cup lineup was expected after Riot's previous involvement with League of Legends and Teamfight Tactics in last year’s competition. Scheduling conflicts prevented Valorant's participation in the 2024 event, but with this new deal, Valorant players can now compete on one of the biggest stages outside the Valorant Champions Tour (VCT). |
A Boost for Riot's Competitive Titles
This partnership ensures that Valorant, Teamfight Tactics, and League of Legends will be central to the Esports World Cup for the next three years. Valorant’s inclusion marks the largest tournament outside the VCT framework, giving players a new platform to showcase their talent and prove their worth. TFT will also see top international talent compete in a thrilling team-based format, further boosting its appeal.
Global Sponsorship and Exposure
Alongside tournament participation, Riot and the Esports World Cup Foundation have inked a global commercial partnership. This includes in-broadcast activations during LoL Esports, VCT, and TFT global LAN events, garnering visibility for both Riot Games and the Esports World Cup. The collaboration promises to enhance the competitive scene, offering players and teams more opportunities for international recognition.
Riot's Expanding Influence in Esports
Fabian Scheuermann, chief games officer at the Esports World Cup Foundation, praised Riot Games for its transformative impact on competitive gaming. Valorant’s cultural collaborations, League of Legends’ immersive World Championships, and TFT’s community-driven events have all boosted the esports industry. By integrating these titles into the Esports World Cup, Riot aims to cement esports as a global entertainment phenomenon, connecting fans through gaming, music, and digital culture. |
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What is the Esports World Cup?
The Esports World Cup is an annual, multi-title competition held over eight weeks during the summer. Managed by the Esports World Cup Foundation, the event is backed by a sporting grant from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. Operated by ESL FACEIT Group, a subsidiary of Saudi-owned Savvy Games Group, the competition features tournaments organized by leading brands like DreamHack, ESL, FACEIT, and Esports Engine. For Valorant players, this event represents a significant opportunity to compete at an elite level.
Competition Amid Controversy
Despite its appeal, the Esports World Cup has faced criticism for being a tool of “sports washing” by the Saudi government. Organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch highlight ongoing concerns about human rights, women's rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and military actions in Yemen. While the tournament offers substantial opportunities for Valorant players, it also remains a focal point for broader discussions on ethics in esports.
Valorant's Competitive Future
With this partnership, Riot Games is set to boost Valorant’s competitive scene significantly. As Riot continues to expand its esports footprint, Valorant players worldwide can expect more opportunities for competition through high-level tournaments.
This new era for Valorant, League of Legends, and Teamfight Tactics under the Esports World Cup banner is set to increase not just individual player standings but also the entire esports landscape, promising thrilling competitions and unprecedented opportunities for players and fans alike.
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