eSports
Best Esports Betting Sites: Thunderpick Picked as Best Esports Betting Site of 2025 (May Update)

Esports experts rated Thunderpick as Best Esports Betting Site for 2025, offering crypto betting, live wagering, and coverage of all major esports titles.
LOS ANGELES, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Are you a gamer looking to support your team and wondering where to place the bet for maximum reward? Then you should definitely look into ‘Thunderpick’, the best esports betting site in the entertainment industry. You may have heard its name before, considering it’s surging popularity following the UCL and Counter-Strike 2 tournaments (CS2).
If you haven’t heard of it, that’s alright too, we will help you get familiar with the Thunderpick and provide you with enough information on its bonuses, betting system, and the wide variety of online games available for you to bet on. After that, you can decide for yourself whether it’s the one for you or not.
Overview of Thunderpick, the Best Esports Betting Site
Thunderpick is a sports betting and online gambling den, currently regarded as one of the best esports betting sites to place your bets on esports and other real-world sports. Founded in 2017 by Napier Ltd, the online gambling site comes under the jurisdiction of the Curacao iGaming Agency, a well-known government-based licensing authority in the online casino sector.
The casino has been rising in popularity, especially since last year. The main reason behind this is the platform’s blockchain integration features and crypto payment mechanism, making it exceptionally famous among crypto enthusiasts. For further information on the reputable sportsbook platform, refer to the following sections.
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Factors Taken Into Account While Thunderpick is Chosen as the Best Esports Betting Site
Thunderpick wasn’t selected as the best esports betting site in the industry on a whim. Many things were considered, like bonuses, ongoing promotions, payment methods, licensing and security, mobile experience, betting market variety, and more. Here is a detailed breakdown of all these factors and how Thunderpick managed to stand out because of them.
Latest Welcome Bonuses of the Thunderpick Esports Betting Site
A betting platform’s welcome bonus is one of the main things that players note when starting their career, and Thunderpick’s is definitely not something to scoff at.
In fact, the online casino and sportsbook provide a €600 Boosted Welcome Bonus. That is, when you deposit some funds, you will get a 100% extra of that amount in either the casino or the betting section. The wagering requirements are also comparatively lower compared to others, making Thunderpick an ideal place for gamblers worldwide.
✔️JOIN Thunderpick & CLAIM YOUR $600 BONUS TODAY!
Licensing & Security on Thunderpick
Thunderpick is owned and operated by Napier Ltd, a company that adheres to the gambling laws of the Curacao iGaming Agency, making it stand out from the rest of the sportsbook casino platforms that possess less reputable licenses.
Apart from this, the casino also implements several data protection measures like SSL Encryption, data protection protocols, secure login measures like 2-factor authentication, emergency protocols for unprecedented circumstances, and other advanced anti-fraud mechanisms to ensure fair play.
Ongoing Promotions
Most major casinos and sportsbooks provide lucrative rewards as part of ongoing promotions to reward their loyal and existing players. Here is a brief outline of these promotions and the rewards they hold in Thunderpick, the best esports betting site.
Bonus / Promotion | Reward |
TWC Cash Bonuses | Get up to €140 in cash bonuses |
TWC Free Spins | Get up to 350 Free Spins |
Drop & Wins Tournament | €2,000,000 in Reward Pool |
Giveaways | €8,000 Reward Pool |
Races | €3,000 Reward Pool |
Monthly Loyalty Bonuses | Special reward for the select few each month |
VIP Club | Varying rewards based on level |
Referral Program | Up to 30% of the revenue they generate |
✔️CLAIM YOUR BONUS THROUGH THE OFFICIAL Thunderpick SITE
Which Esports Can I Bet On Thunderpick? Listed Best Esports Games for May 2025
Counter-Strike 2 (CS2)
- PGL Astana 2025
PGL Astana 2025 is set to bring world-class Counter-Strike 2 action to the vibrant city of Astana. With top international teams competing on stage at the iconic Barys Arena, fans can expect high-level gameplay, unforgettable plays, and intense rivalries. This event marks a major moment for CS2, as PGL continues to push the boundaries of production and competition.
Whether you’re cheering in the arena or watching from home, PGL Astana promises the kind of esports excitement that keeps fans coming back for more.
- IEM Dallas 2025
IEM Dallas 2025 is back, bringing the heat to the Counter-Strike 2 stage with some of the best teams in the world battling it out for glory. Hosted in one of North America’s most electric esports venues, the atmosphere is set to be intense from the first round to the grand final. Fans can expect jaw-dropping plays, passionate crowds, and unforgettable moments that define top-tier CS2 competition. As part of the prestigious ESL Pro Tour, IEM Dallas continues to raise the bar for what an elite tournament experience should be.
- BLAST.tv Austin Major 2025
The BLAST.tv Austin Major 2025 is set to be a landmark event in the Counter-Strike 2 scene, bringing together the game’s biggest names under one roof. Hosted in the vibrant city of Austin, this Major promises a perfect mix of top-tier competition and electric crowd energy.
With BLAST’s reputation for world-class production and unforgettable stage moments, fans can expect an epic showdown filled with clutch plays, high-stakes drama, and global rivalries. It’s not just a tournament—it’s a celebration of everything that makes CS2 esports legendary.
League of Legends
- LCK 2025 (League of Legends Champions Korea)
The LCK (League of Legends Champions Korea) 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling seasons yet, with Korea’s top League of Legends teams battling for regional dominance and a shot at international glory. Known for its high-caliber gameplay and tactical brilliance, the LCK consistently delivers some of the most intense matchups in the world. Fans can expect fierce rivalries, rising stars, and veteran legends pushing the limits of competitive play.
With every match carrying weight, the road to the championship promises drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments that only the LCK can deliver.
- LPL 2025 (League of Legends Pro League)
LPL (League of Legends Pro League) 2025 is turning up the heat as China’s finest League of Legends teams clash in what’s expected to be a fiercely competitive season. Known for its fast-paced, aggressive playstyle and deep talent pool, the LPL never fails to keep fans on the edge of their seats. From bold rookies to seasoned veterans, each team is fighting to prove they have what it takes to dominate the region and make their mark on the global stage.
Expect explosive plays, unpredictable upsets, and nonstop action that defines the spirit of the LPL.
- LFL 2025
LFL 2025 is delivering some of the most exciting League of Legends action in Europe, with France’s top teams going head-to-head in a league known for its passion, talent, and intensity. From breakout rookies to veteran superstars, every match is packed with drama and highlight-reel plays.
The LFL has built a reputation for developing future stars and showcasing bold, strategic gameplay that keeps fans coming back for more. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or a casual viewer, the LFL is where raw talent meets high-stakes competition at its finest.
Dota 2
- Fissure Universe: Episode 5
Fissure Universe: Episode 5 brings another thrilling chapter to Dota 2’s competitive saga, uniting rising stars and seasoned veterans in an electrifying clash of strategy and skill. Known for its unique format and unpredictable matchups, the tournament has become a fan favorite for showcasing raw talent and bold plays.
With every game, new narratives unfold—underdogs rise, favorites fall, and legends are made. Episode 5 continues the tradition of high-stakes Dota with a fresh dose of excitement, proving once again why Fissure Universe is a must-watch for any serious fan of the game.
- Asian Champions League 2025
The European Pro League in Dota 2 is a premier tournament showcasing the best teams from across Europe. Known for its high-level competition and intense matches, the league brings together top-tier talent, with every team battling for dominance and a chance to shine on the international stage.
Whether it’s through strategic drafts or mechanical skill, the European Pro League never fails to deliver unforgettable moments. Fans can expect fierce rivalries, exciting gameplay, and the chance to witness the next big stars of Dota 2 emerge in this highly competitive environment.
- European Pro League
The European Pro League in Dota 2 brings together some of the best teams from across Europe, showcasing the region’s elite talent in a fiercely competitive environment. With intense matches and high-level gameplay, the league serves as a proving ground for both rising stars and seasoned veterans. Fans can expect thrilling team fights, strategic drafts, and unforgettable moments that define the competitive Dota 2 scene.
As one of Europe’s top tournaments, the European Pro League is a must-watch for anyone passionate about Dota 2 and the region’s rich esports history.
Valorant
- Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) 2025
The Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) 2025 marks a significant evolution in Riot Games’ premier esports circuit, introducing an expanded season and revamped formats to elevate global competition. The season now spans from January to October, featuring regional leagues across EMEA, Americas, Pacific, and China, each culminating in Masters tournaments and concluding with the World Championship in Paris.
Teams accumulate Championship Points throughout the year, determining their qualification for the prestigious Champions event. The 2025 season also sees the integration of academy teams into the Challengers tier, enhancing the development pipeline for emerging talent. With these changes, VCT 2025 aims to deliver a more dynamic and inclusive competitive experience for players and fans alike.
- VALORANT Challengers 2025 EMEA
The VALORANT Challengers 2025 EMEA is a premier tournament showcasing the best tier-two teams from across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. In this revamped format, top teams from regional leagues, including DACH, France, Spain, Turkey, and the newly merged NORTH//EAST—compete in a round-robin group stage, followed by a double-elimination playoff.
The top-performing teams earn Championship Points, paving their way toward the prestigious Ascension event and a potential spot in the VCT EMEA league. This structure not only elevates regional talent but also fosters a more dynamic and interconnected competitive ecosystem.
- VCL North America 25
The VCL North America 2025 is a premier tournament in the Valorant esports scene, featuring some of the region’s most promising teams. With intense competition and high-level gameplay, the event provides a platform for rising stars to showcase their skills and vie for a chance to ascend to the top-tier leagues.
Teams compete in a dynamic and fast-paced format, with the stakes high as they battle for glory and a spot in future global competitions. Fans can expect thrilling matches, fierce rivalries, and moments that define the future of North American Valorant.
- VALORANT Challengers 2025 Japan
VALORANT Challengers 2025 Japan continues to showcase the nation’s top-tier talent in Riot Games’ competitive circuit. With a structured format spanning multiple splits, the tournament emphasizes both seasoned teams and emerging academy squads. Notably, academy teams like ZETA DIVISION Academy and DetonatioN FocusMe Academy participate alongside other qualified teams, highlighting the event’s focus on nurturing young talent.
The competition features a mix of online and offline matches, culminating in high-stakes playoffs that determine the region’s best. As teams vie for supremacy, fans are treated to intense matches that reflect the strategic depth and excitement of VALORANT esports in Japan.
Rainbow Six
- RE:L0:AD 2025
RE:L0:AD 2025 is a premier Rainbow Six Siege tournament organized by BLAST and Ubisoft, held in Rio de Janeiro at Carioca Arena 1. Featuring 20 of the world’s top teams, the event marks the debut of Siege X on the professional stage. The tournament introduces an innovative format, beginning with a “Reload to Survive” group stage where teams accumulate bullets to determine their standing. The top 8 teams advance to the playoffs, culminating in a Best-of-5 grand final. With a $520,000 prize pool, RE:L0:AD 2025 sets the tone for the new era of competitive Rainbow Six Siege.
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Betting Market
Even though the exact size of the betting market of the platform is difficult to determine, based on a recent study, the global esports section is projected to be larger than many other sportsbooks in the industry. The platform offers a wide variety of esports titles to bet on, including several popular games like CS: GO, League of Legends, Dota 2, VALORANT, and many more. This diverse range of betting options is another reason Thunderpick remains an ideal gambling place for gaming enthusiasts worldwide.
Another key highlight of the betting platform is that it allows you to place bets in the middle of matches to give players an advantage. However, this feature is not available on all matches.
Betting Odds
Thunderpick offers one of the best odds in the betting market, especially when it comes to esports betting. They primarily make use of decimal odds, with the payout being calculated by multiplying the stake by the odds. For instance, if a player places a $10 bet with 1.5 odds, they will get a return of $15 on victory. However, these odds are dynamic and can change depending on various factors like team/player forms, head-to-head records, tournament stage, and betting market activity.
Betting Options
Thunderpick offers a wide range of betting options for its players across different sports and esports titles. For instance, you can find odds on:
- Match Winners
- Map winners
- Handicap bets
- Over/Under bers
- In-game events like first blood
- Futures bets
Banking Details
Thunderpick mainly supports over 15 payment methods. They are:
- MasterCard
- VISA
- Bitcoin
- Ethereum
- Google Pay
- Apple Pay
- XRP
- Cardano
- DOGE
- Tether USDT
- USDC
- Litecoin
- BNB
- Fiat Currency
All that being said, the casino also imposes several restrictions on the transactions and helps prevent players from getting addicted to gambling. These restrictions vary depending on the employed payment method. For instance, the minimum withdrawal limit for the USD payments is $27.77, while in Ethereum, this limit is set at $11.11.
✔️SPORTS BETTING IS JUST A CLICK AWAY!
Mobile Experience & UI
Thunderpick has a highly responsive website that adapts well to different screen sizes, offering a consistent experience on both desktop and mobile platforms. The platform’s UI should also be praised for its user-friendliness and intuitive design that makes it easy to navigate.
They also offer web apps to improve loading time and navigation, enhancing the overall experience for their players. The web app also enhances the full-screen experience by removing the taskbar, providing the online gambling platform with an app-like interface. Additionally, the platform also features smooth animation, seamless transitions, and other sound effects, even on slower data connections.
Customer Support
Thunderpick offers customer support through the following channels.
- 24/7 Live Chat: Thunderpick offers 24/7 live chat support to all of its players. This can be easily accessed via a floating chat button on their official website, allowing for quick and real-time assistance.
- Email: You can reach out to them for assistance at their email address: ‘[email protected]’.
- Public Chat: Thunderpick has a public chat feature where players can interact and potentially find answers to common questions.
- FAQ: Thunderpick offers an FAQ section on their website where they address specific matters regarding certain casino procedures and common doubts associated with them.
Pros & Cons of Thunderpick
Like any other sports betting site, Thunderpick also has its own advantages and associated drawbacks. Here we will look into them so that you know exactly what you’re getting playing at Thunderpick.
Pros:
- Crypto-Friendly: Thunderpick employs several crypto payment methods, offering faster and more secure transactions with an anonymity feature.
- Diverse Gambling Options: Offers a large sportsbook with several sports and esports markets, in addition to the normal casino games like slots and live dealer ones.
- Competitive Odds: Thunderpick offers the best competitive odds in sports and esports betting.
- User-Friendly Interface: The platform boasts a clean and intuitive interface, making it easier for players to navigate.
- Fast Withdrawals: Crypto withdrawals are processed extremely quickly, with the longest taking only up to 30 minutes.
- Provably Fair Games: Thunderpick uses provably fair technology, which allows players to verify the authenticity and fairness of the casino game results.
- Responsible Gambling Tools: Thunderpick offers tools and resources to help players manage their gambling habits.
Cons:
- Lack of Traditional Currency Wagering: Even though the casino supports fiat transactions, you can only wager using cryptocurrencies.
- Unavailable in Some Countries: Thunderpick is unavailable in some major countries due to some legal restrictions, but players can play using a VPN.
How to Play at the Thunderpick Betting Site? Step by Step Guide
Starting your betting career with Thunderpack is much easier than most people think it is. In fact, at most, it will only take up to 5 minutes. For more detailed information on the procedure, refer to the following steps.
Step 1: Creating a Thunderpick Account
- Create Your Thunderpick Account
Click Here To Sign Up With Thunderpick, and click the “Join” button. - You can use your email address to create an account. You can also use alternate options like Steam, Twitch, Google, or VK accounts to create a Thunderpick one.
- Create a secure password and go through the ‘Terms and Conditions’ before proceeding.
- Check your email address and verify your account by clicking the embedded activation link.
Step 2: Funding Your Account
- Log in to your account.
- Go to the “Wallet” section and click the “Deposit” button.
- Choose a cryptocurrency from the drop-down menu.
- Copy the unique deposit address provided by the casino. Note that this unique address varies for each crypto, so don’t accidentally send other cryptocurrencies to this address in the hope of funding your betting account.
- Open your crypto wallet and send the desired amount to the provided address.
Step 3: Placing Your Bets
- Go to the “Sports” section in Thunderpick.
- Browse the available sports and select one you’re interested in placing bets on.
- Choose a specific match or event.
- Review the betting odds and other associated details.
- Select the betting line you want to wager on.
- Enter the amount you wish to sink into the bet.
- Click the “Place Bet” button to confirm it.
Step 4: Esports Betting on Thunderpick
- Go to the “esports” section in the sportsbook.
- Browse through the available games and choose one that you’re interested in.
- Choose a pre-match bet or a live betting option.
- Select the betting line you want to wager on.
- Enter the amount you wish to sink into the bet.
- Click the “Place Bet” button to confirm the wager.
Step 5: Managing Your Bets & Withdrawals
- Keep track of your active and inactive bets in the “My Bets” section.
- On winning, the payout will be automatically credited to your account.
- Now go to the “Wallet” section and choose the “Withdraw” option.
- Select the preferred cryptocurrency payment method. Make sure to use the same wallet as the deposit to avoid complications.
- Enter the desired amount. Make sure it is above the minimum withdrawal limit.
- Confirm the withdrawal request and wait for it to be processed. After processing, the funds will be credited to your crypto wallet.
Responsible Gambling With Thunderpick
Thunderpick implements several responsible gambling measures to promote a safe and enjoyable gaming environment for its users. Here is a brief breakdown of these initiatives.
- Self-Exclusion
Users can voluntarily request to deactivate their account features, preventing them from depositing funds or placing bets. This feature enables them to take a break from betting if they feel like getting addicted to it. You can implement these features by getting in touch with their customer service, and once this is implemented, the account can’t be reactivated until the specified time limit is reached.
- General Responsible Gambling Guidelines
Thunderpick emphasizes that wagering should be done as a means of entertainment and should not be a passive income source. Furthermore, they also advise players to be aware of potential losses and encourage them only to gamble what they can afford to lose. Users are encouraged to keep track of their spending and avoid using credit cards for gambling. They also employ session time remainders for these purposes and encourage them to take a break in case of prolonged gambling exposure.
- Minor Protection
Thunderpick strictly restricts gambling to minors. They reserve the right to verify user ages and suspend accounts until proof of age is provided. If the casino finds that anyone has broken this rule, their account will be banned, with their winnings forfeited.
- Professional Help
Thunderpick acknowledges that sometimes gambling can turn into a serious problem. Therefore, they encourage users who feel they are slowly edging towards addiction to seek professional help. Such users can also contact Thunderpick’s customer service for assistance with responsible gambling measures or for information on where to find support for their growing gambling addiction.
Types of Games Available in Thunderpick Crypto Casino
In addition to being a leading esports and sports betting platform, Thunderpick hosts a wide range of casino games for interested players. Here are some of the top trending gaming categories among them.
- Slots: Vast selection with different themes, features, and jackpots.
- Live Casino: Enjoy live dealer games like Blackjack, Roulette, and Baccarat.
- Blackjack: Numerous different types of Blackjack, ranging from classic versions to modern iterations.
- Roulette: Different variations of Roulette, ranging from European to American ones.
- Poker: Wide selection of Poker games, including video poker and live dealer ones.
- Table Games: A wide variety of classic table games like Craps and Baccarat.
- Casual Games: Numerous casual games like Crash, Dice, Darts, and other Virtual Sports.
- Thunderpick Originals: Unique original games developed by Thunderpick, including Thunder Crash, Thunder Spin, and Plinko.
- Card Games: A Different selection of card games like Pontoon, Bonus Deuces Wild, and Baccarat.
- Game Shows: Live casino game shows like Monopoly Live and Deal or No Deal.
Final Words on Thunderpick: The Best Esports Betting Site of 2025
When looking for the best esports betting site in the industry, the first one that comes to mind is often Thunderpick, with its intuitive UI and wide betting varieties. The platform’s acceptance of cryptocurrencies and its own exchange also add to its favor, especially among crypto enthusiasts. In addition to all this, its license, live betting feature, mobile optimization, and 24/7 customer support make it stand apart from the rest of the sportsbooks.
For these reasons, we chose Thunderpick. Now, the ball’s in your court, and it’s up to you to decide whether to choose it as your next betting site. Just keep in mind not to overbet and get addicted.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which games are featured in Thunderpick’s esports betting section?
Ans: Thundepick’s esports betting section offers a large selection of games, including prominent ones like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS: GO), Dota 2, League of Legends, Valorant, and Call of Duty (COD).
2. Why is Thunderpick’s esports betting so famous?
Ans: Thunderpick’s esports betting is exceptionally popular because of many factors, including extensive esports coverage, a variety of betting options, live betting features, crypto-focused betting, and competitive odds.
3. What are the benefits and drawbacks of the welcome bonus available in Thunderpick?
Ans: Thunderpick offers a 100% deposit bonus on your first deposit. This helps in providing the players with a significant boost in their funds, allowing them to place more bets and increase their winning amounts. But, they come with wagering requirements.
4. What is the top RTP game in Thunderpick?
Ans: Thunderpick features several top RTP games, but the one with the highest RTP remains Blackjack, with a little over 99%.
5. Is Thunderpick trustworthy?
Ans: Yes, Thunderpick is a legitimate and well-established gambling and betting site as it holds a valid license from the Curacao iGaming Agency.
Email: [email protected]
Disclaimer: Esports betting involves risk and is intended for adults aged 18 and over. Please gamble responsibly. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute betting advice.
Gambling carries inherent risks and should be approached responsibly. In the region where they live, players must be of legal gambling age. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always gamble within your means.
This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. The content is based on research and user reviews, with no warranties as to accuracy or completeness. Users must verify information before acting.
This article may contain affiliate links, earning us a commission at no cost to you for qualifying actions. These support our content, but our reviews remain unbiased. Always conduct your own research before signing up.
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eSports
Esports Charts Becomes Official Viewership Analytics Partner of StarLadder Budapest Major 2025

Esports Charts, the leading esports viewership analytics provider, has partnered with StarLadder, a pioneering tournament organiser. The Budapest Major 2025 marks a highly anticipated comeback for StarLadder, as it is their first Counter-Strike Major since 2019 and a significant return to the top-tier esports arena.
As the official analytics partner of the StarLadder Budapest Major 2025, Esports Charts will provide comprehensive, real-time audience data and insights throughout the event. This will empower organisers, teams, sponsors and fans with unparalleled transparency and a deeper understanding of the tournament’s global reach.
Artyom Odintsov, Co-founder and CEO of Esports Charts, said: “We are thrilled and proud to provide viewership analytics for StarLadder for the Budapest Major 2025. Since both Esports Charts and StarLadder are Ukraine-born companies, we share similar values and deal with similar challenges, which brings us even closer.
“It’s genuinely exciting to follow how viewership will develop at this Major. But knowing the expertise, drive, and passion that the organizers are bringing, I have no doubt we’ll witness some incredible things happen in Budapest.
“Esports Charts has always been driven by a mission to provide the esports community with accurate, actionable data, and we look forward to showcasing the impact and audience engagement of this world-class event.”
StarLadder has been a driving force in global esports for almost 15 years now, since hosting its first tournaments in 2011. Renowned for its innovation and reliability, the company has organised some of the industry’s most iconic events. These include the StarLadder Berlin Major 2019, which accumulated over 44 million hours watched and remains in the top 10 CS events by this metric, and the legendary StarSeries tournaments which started back in 2012.
Viacheslav Shcherbakov, Sales and Partnerships at StarLadder, said: “We’ve been working with Esports Charts since their founding and have always valued their professionalism and integrity. In a market where reliable data is essential, Esports Charts provides honest, transparent numbers, exactly the kind of insights sponsors and stakeholders rely on when assessing the potential reach of a World Championship event.
“We’re confident that this partnership will result in a high-quality analysis of our tournament’s performance and the audience data we’ll report to our partners. It’s a collaboration built on trust, shared values, and a deep understanding of what it takes to elevate esports to the next level.”
The Starladder Budapest Major 2025 will be held from November 24 to December 14 in Budapest, Hungary. The event will bring together the world’s top 32 Counter-Strike 2 teams to compete for a $1.25 million prize pool and one of the most prestigious titles in esports.
The post Esports Charts Becomes Official Viewership Analytics Partner of StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
Claire Hungate
Mirage Digital Announces Partnership with Team Liquid

Mirage Digital, the next-generation content studio shaping the future of digital entertainment, announced a groundbreaking partnership with global eSports organization Team Liquid. With over 35 million social media followers across platforms, 100+ championship titles with its over 120+ players and content creators worldwide, Team Liquid is the highest earning eSports team in the world to launch a 24/7 live-streaming programming experience surrounding the fan-favorite World of Warcraft: Race to World First event.
Mirage has created a new content monetization model for creators and enterprising entities, unlocking previously untapped non-traditional revenue streams. The company helps its clients with repurposing, redistributing, licensing, and selling content across numerous platforms and territories. Resulting in over a million dollars for its eclectic roster of over 300 creators, the company leverages its extensive creator network and expertise in original content development, to redefine digital content syndication. Mirage Digital is bridging the gap between creators and enterprise opportunities by sourcing high-quality content from creators and repurposing it for expanded deal flow and pipeline of distribution across OTT and FAST platforms.
Team Liquid, coming off a championship win in March, is set to make history with its most ambitious Race to World First campaign yet, with live coverage kicking off in July. For the first time, the tournament and its surrounding content will be broadcast beyond Twitch to OTT and FAST audiences, expanding access for new and longtime fans alike.
“This launch marks a huge moment not just for Team Liquid, but for the future of all eSports and creator content. We’re unlocking a format that merges always-on content with world-class competitive play, giving fans a reason to tune in every hour of every day. This is a monumental moment for both television networks and eSports to recognize the boundaries they are breaking in both parallels,” said Griffin Haddrill, Founder of Mirage Digital.
The multi-day broadcast includes full tournament coverage alongside exclusive behind-the-scenes content, player profiles, real-time strategy breakdowns, and each day’s highlights – providing an unprecedented level of access to Team Liquid’s journey and personalities within the event.
Team Liquid will bring its world-renowned Race to World First event to new audiences with a livestream on The Roku Channel in late August. Widely regarded as one of the most thrilling competitions in MMORPG gaming, Race to World First draws millions of global viewers eager to watch elite teams battle for supremacy in World of Warcraft. Known for pushing the boundaries of eSports entertainment, Team Liquid is once again innovating – this marks the first time the iconic event will be available via a dedicated OTT streaming platform, giving fans an even more immersive viewing experience.
“This collaboration is the result of our mission to re-imagine where and how gaming and creator content lives. All parties saw an opportunity to take one of the most anticipated eSports events of the year and expand its reach to new audiences through OTT and FAST distribution. This is about creating long-term value for teams, fans, and platforms alike—and Race to World First is just the beginning,” said Robin Bigge, Co-CEO of Mirage Digital.
“This is a historic evolution in how we bring eSports to the world. We’ve built a legacy on competitive excellence, and this partnership lets us showcase the heart, hustle, and humanity of our players in a way we’ve never done before—24/7, across every screen,” said Claire Hungate, President & COO of Team Liquid.
This moment also marks the first time Team Liquid has programmed content specifically for a FAST Channel, a move that speaks to the maturation and crossover appeal of eSports for general audiences.
The post Mirage Digital Announces Partnership with Team Liquid appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
eSports
Mastercard Extends Partnership with Esports World Cup 2025

The collaboration will introduce a range of immersive on-ground activations, Priceless Experiences and seamless payment solutions to enhance the fan journey
The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) announced the return of Mastercard as an official event supplier for the 2025 Esports World Cup, the world’s largest esports event, set to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from July 7 to August 24. The renewed partnership underscores Mastercard’s continued commitment to elevating digital experiences, championing youth engagement, and supporting the Kingdom’s rapidly growing gaming ecosystem.
Through the collaboration with the Esports World Cup, Mastercard will introduce a range of immersive on-ground activations and seamless payment solutions designed to enhance the overall fan journey. This will include creating a bespoke version of the Mastercard Gamer Academy, where Mastercard, in collaboration with G2 Esports and Esports World Cup, designed a one-of-a-kind experience that will provide 10 successful applicants with the opportunity to be mentored by professionals on how they could pursue a career in esports. Further, fans can collect Priceless Points by interacting with the games and activities available at the Mastercard booth for the chance to win ultimate gaming gear that will be rewarded to the top scoring players. Further, there will be live appearances by G2 Esports players to be hosted as fireside chats to talk about areas like pro esports. The brand’s presence will emphasize the intersection of technology, gaming, and culture, anchored by initiatives that highlight and support local Saudi talent.
“Mastercard’s return as a partner reflects the Esports World Cup’s evolution from a tournament into a global cultural platform,” said Mohammed Al Nimer, Chief Commercial Officer, Esports World Cup Foundation. “Together, we’re creating impactful experiences that go beyond gameplay, uniting youth empowerment, digital inclusion, and immersive fan engagement. Mastercard’s focus on Priceless experiences and innovation makes them an ideal partner to help us inspire the next generation of gamers and connect with fans in meaningful and memorable ways.”
Saud Swar, Country Manager, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan and other Levant, Mastercard added, “We are proud to deepen our partnership with the Esports World Cup Foundation as we continue to unlock the potential of gaming in the Kingdom. In line with Saudi Vision 2030, Mastercard is committed to connecting people to their passions, driving innovation, and inspiring the next generation. Our priceless experiences help empower youth, promote digital inclusion, and celebrate Saudi Arabia’s vibrant esports culture.”
This partnership builds on Mastercard’s long-standing global support for the gaming and esports industry, including its strategic sponsorship of Riot Games’ League of Legends and VALORANT. It reinforces Mastercard’s leadership in digital payments and its role in shaping future-facing experiences through youth engagement and innovation.
The 2025 Esports World Cup will host 25 tournaments across 24 game titles, bringing together over 2,000 elite players and 200 Clubs from more than 100 countries. With a record-breaking prize pool of over $70 million, the event will offer fans a comprehensive entertainment experience, from high-stakes competition and live music to anime cafés, retro arcades, cosplay showcases, and more, cementing Riyadh’s position as a global esports and entertainment hub.
The post Mastercard Extends Partnership with Esports World Cup 2025 appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
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