Brazilian esports organisation MIBR has become the first team globally to secure Riot Games‘ approval for a betting sponsorship within its ecosystem, partnering with 1xBet for its VALORANT roster.

This landmark move follows Riot’s announcement five months ago to open its Americas and EMEA leagues to regulated betting partners and comes shortly after MIBR’s acquisition by media group Spun Mídia, signalling a period of significant structural change for the Brazilian outfit.

Gustavo “Sacy” Rossi. Image credits: MIBR

The partnership with 1xBet is not new but an expansion of an existing relationship. The deal originated with MIBR’s Counter-Strike team in January 2022. The newly approved inclusion of the mixed VALORANT lineup marks the latest pillar of this long-term agreement. The contract also designates streamer Gustavo “Sacy” Rossi as an ambassador for this new phase of the partnership.

As part of Riot’s strict framework for such partnerships, MIBR will be required to adhere to specific branding restrictions during official competitions. A key stipulation is that 1xBet branding will not be permitted on MIBR’s VALORANT team jerseys during official Riot-owned events and broadcasts. This aligns with Riot’s confirmed policy of keeping its official broadcasts and social media channels free of betting advertisements.

Raphael Castanheira, MIBR’s Director of Marketing and Partnerships, stated that the approval is a direct result of the organisation’s operational standards. “Being the first organisation in the entire Riot ecosystem to obtain approval for a betting sponsorship is a direct result of how MIBR operates today, as an organized company with robust governance, clear processes, and protected by policies that put competitive integrity at the forefront,” Castanheira said.

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This development occurs within a broader context of corporate restructuring for MIBR. Just one month ago, Spun Mídia fully acquired the organisation and launched EZOR, a new gaming and esports vertical functioning as a brand house. Backed by a R$ 100 million investment, EZOR now serves as an umbrella for MIBR and another major Brazilian team, LOS, with both entities retaining their individual brand identities while gaining enhanced operational and financial backing.

Riot Games’ new framework, which permits such sponsorships, was unveiled in June 2025 and includes mandatory partner vetting, the use of official data, and required team integrity programmes. For the newly structured MIBR under the EZOR umbrella, this approved sponsorship represents an early validation of its reinforced governance model and a new chapter of activations operating within Riot’s strict guidelines.

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