Riot Games has concluded its investigation into allegations of cheating, match-fixing, and other integrity breaches in the 2025 VALORANT Challengers North America (NA Challengers) competition, finding no substantiating evidence.
The review was carried out by Riot’s League Operations, Esports Compliance, and Anti-Cheat teams, working alongside integrity partners Sportradar, GRID, and the International Betting Integrity Association (IBIA). The inquiry examined claims surrounding a match between Blue Otter and Shopify Rebellion, as well as six other games referenced in public allegations. Analysis of gameplay, account data, and user behaviour logs revealed no signs of cheating or suspicious activity.
Betting markets covering Stage 1 and Stage 2 fixtures were also reviewed, with no matches flagged as irregular. Riot’s integrity partners analysed bet slips circulated on social media, determining that one widely shared image did not relate to NA Challengers and that no suspicious betting patterns were found.
A review of clean feed access protocols confirmed no misuse, with controls aligned to industry standards. Allegations involving Riot employees were traced back to third-party claims later withdrawn or admitted to be unsupported by evidence. No misconduct by staff was identified.
Additional measures included open-source intelligence gathering, performance reviews of named players and teams, and discussions with tournament organisers to reinforce reporting obligations. These steps also did not uncover actionable evidence.
Riot stated it will continue to monitor the situation and may revisit the matter should credible new information emerge. The company emphasised its commitment to safeguarding competitive integrity in partnership with players, teams, tournament organisers, and trusted integrity organisations, and said it is prepared to cooperate with law enforcement if necessary.
The publisher also reminded the esports community of the importance of timely, specific, and evidence-based reporting of suspected misconduct. Riot advised players and stakeholders approached about fixing matches or sharing insider information to preserve relevant evidence and report incidents through official channels.
While stressing that whistleblowers play a key role in maintaining fair play, Riot warned that false or exaggerated claims can damage reputations, divert resources, and undermine trust in integrity processes. Match-fixing and related offences may also be criminal matters in some jurisdictions, carrying potential prosecution and penalties.
Concerns over potential match-fixing in the Tier 2 North American VALORANT scene first emerged in May, when Shopify Rebellion’s General Manager, Sean “sgares” Gares, publicly alleged he had uncovered evidence of illicit activity. Gares claimed his findings pointed to match-fixing within the Challengers ecosystem, prompting wider discussion and ultimately leading Riot Games to launch its formal investigation.
