Cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase partners with Riot Games to expand its presence in esports

Coinbase, the leading cryptocurrency exchange in the U.S., is expanding its presence in the esports world with a new partnership with Riot Games, the developer of popular video games League of Legends and VALORANT.

Coinbase will serve as the exclusive cryptocurrency exchange and an official blockchain technology partner for both League of Legends and VALORANT Esports global events. The partnership will also see Coinbase closely working with Riot Games to enhance the fan experience. Together they will be developing custom segments and in-game cosmetic rewards to engage viewers during competitions.

Coinbase and Riot Games partnership is fueled by a shared vision to innovate and disrupt within their respective industries. Both esports and cryptocurrency have built close-knit digital-first communities around the world.

Coinbase will be making its debut at the Masters (M2) event in Toronto, Canada. The partnership will see them engaging fans across both games' global esports calendars. These events include Masters and Champions on the VALORANT Champions Tour (VCT), and First Stand, the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI), and Worlds for LoL Esports. Activations will span social media, broadcast, and digital campaigns, integrating technology to offer a more immersive fan experience.

As part of the collaboration, Coinbase will introduce unique in-game segments tailored to each esports title. These include the “Econ Report” for VALORANT Esports and the “Gold Grind” for LoL Esports. Both segments will provide viewers with real-time analysis of each game’s in-match currency movements, offering insights into how these dynamics influence team strategies.

Coinbase will also be facilitating the distribution of digital rewards, known as “drops,” during events. These drops will include exclusive emotes and icons that fans can redeem, as well as promotions with unique prizes, such as an all-expenses-paid trip to major esports tournaments like the VALORANT Champions Tour or LoL Worlds.

The partnership between Coinbase and Riot Games is seen as a catalyst for future innovations in the intersection of esports and blockchain technology. Throughout the season, the collaboration will explore new ways to leverage Web3 technology to deliver insights and enhance the viewing experience. By integrating cryptocurrency and esports in meaningful ways, both companies aim to set new standards in sports partnerships.

Coinbase views this partnership as a strategic opportunity to engage with a global audience of digital natives who are curious about the potential of cryptocurrency. As one of the most trusted platforms for buying, selling, and managing crypto, Coinbase sees esports as a unique avenue to connect with communities that value speed, efficiency, and innovation in financial transactions.

This collaboration adds to Coinbase’s portfolio of sports partnerships, which already includes relationships with esports organization Team Liquid, as well as partnerships across major leagues such as the WNBA and NBA, the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Clippers, Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team™, and Borussia Dortmund in Bundesliga.

With Riot Games’ player-centric philosophy and Coinbase’s mission-driven approach, the partnership aims to create an unparalleled fan experience by combining the dynamic worlds of esports and cryptocurrency.

Coinbase will make its debut at the Masters (M2) event in Toronto, Canada on June 7.