North American esports organisation Cloud9 has entered a partnership with software development firm JetBrains, focusing on AI innovation and coding within the gaming ecosystem. The multi-faceted collaboration will see JetBrains become the official AI-powered coding partner for Cloud9’s competitive teams and content initiatives.
The partnership aims to integrate JetBrains’ development tools and AI expertise across Cloud9’s operations. The primary goal is to leverage technology to enhance competitive performance and fan engagement, while also increasing JetBrains’ visibility within the gaming and esports communities.
As part of the deal, JetBrains will support Cloud9 across its various competition divisions, including League of Legends, VALORANT, Rainbow Six, and Call of Duty. The collaboration will extend beyond team support to include content creation, events, and a dedicated Hackathon designed to bring coding enthusiasts and gamers together.
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In a statement, Jonathan Tran, President of Cloud9, emphasised the practical aims of the collaboration, moving beyond a traditional sponsorship. “Together we’re exploring how AI can enhance everything from high-performance data analysis to richer fan experiences,” Tran said. He added that the partnership is a “working model of how technology and esports can come together to spark innovation, creativity, and opportunity.”
Yulia Anfilova, VP of Marketing at JetBrains, highlighted the connection between software development and competitive gaming. “This collaboration connects the fast-paced worlds of competitive esports and software development, both pioneered by ingenuity and breakthrough talent,” Anfilova stated.
This is not Cloud9’s first foray into AI technology this year. Earlier in 2025, the organisation partnered with Theta Network to develop an AI-powered chatbot named Nimbus, an initiative aimed at enhancing fan engagement through personalised insights and interactive experiences. The new deal with JetBrains signifies a deeper and more technical commitment to integrating AI and development tools directly into its competitive and community infrastructure.
