Visit Raleigh has been announced as the Official Destination Partner for the upcoming Rocket League Championship Series (RLCS) Raleigh Major, set to take place at the Lenovo Center from 26–29 June.
Organised by BLAST in collaboration with Rocket League publisher Epic Games—whose global headquarters are located in Greater Raleigh—the Major will bring the world’s top Rocket League teams to compete for a share of a $351,000 prize pool and a spot in the Rocket League World Championship later this season.
The partnership between Visit Raleigh and BLAST will see the destination’s branding featured prominently across broadcast segments and event infrastructure, including advertisements, backdrops, and sponsored zones. The collaboration is designed to highlight the region’s culture, hospitality, and emerging reputation as a centre for innovation.
“This is a landmark event for Rocket League and for the destination,” said James Woollard, Director of Market Development at BLAST. “Partnering with Visit Raleigh allows us to truly showcase the region’s appeal to a global audience. These events aren’t just about entertainment; they bring real economic impact through tourism and local business.”
Loren Gold, Executive Vice President at Visit Raleigh, added, “This expanding partnership with the RLCS Raleigh Major and BLAST isn’t just about hosting; it’s about powerfully spotlighting our area’s unique strengths and solidifying our global leadership as a premier destination for major esports and gaming events.”
According to organisers, approximately 60 percent of attendees are expected to travel from outside the area, and the tournament is projected to generate over $6 million in direct economic impact. This includes spending from visiting fans, sponsorship activations, and production investment—supporting local businesses and reinforcing North Carolina’s growing influence in the esports sector.
The announcement comes as the Lenovo Center prepares for significant renovations beginning this summer. Plans include modernising the arena and developing a multi-phase mixed-use district around the venue to better accommodate future events.
The event marks the first time a Rocket League Major is being held in North Carolina’s capital and signals a continued rise in the region’s esports profile, but Greater Raleigh’s commitment to esports extends beyond major international tournaments. The region has invested in grassroots initiatives such as collegiate competitions and community gaming spaces to support long-term industry growth.
Visit Raleigh is also a partner to the Global Esports Industry Week (GEIW) 2025, a business-focused event organised by The Esports Radar and the Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) in partnership with BLAST in Austin, Texas, running along with BLAST.tv Major Austin 2025 finals.
