Evolving Integrity: 2025 Updates to Riot Games’ Esports Global Code of Conduct
In 2024, Riot Games introduced the Esports Global Code of Conduct (the “Code”) to establish a unified standard of integrity and professionalism across our esports ecosystem. Over the past year, we’ve gathered insights from experts and real-world cases to refine the Code and adapt it to the evolving needs of esports. The 2025 edition of the “Code” strengthens our commitment to fostering a fair, inclusive, and competitive environment while addressing emerging challenges in the esports landscape.
What’s New in the 2025 Edition?
The 2025 Code introduces several key updates and clarifications to enhance understanding, accountability, and enforcement across all stakeholders. Notable updates include:
Definitions (Article 1)
A dedicated definitions section has been added to ensure consistent interpretation of key terms across all regions and stakeholders. This clarity enhances alignment and understanding of the Code’s provisions globally.
Match-Fixing, Manipulation, and Gambling (Articles 4.14 & 4.15)
Under the new Code, Riot may hold Esports Professionals accountable for the actions of their relatives or affiliates, such as agents or representatives, if they contribute to violations. This update reinforces personal responsibility and aims to deter individuals from using their networks to bypass enforcement measures or share insider information. By fostering a sense of accountability among Esports Professionals, this provision indirectly encourages them to educate their support systems, bolstering the integrity of the competition.
Fantasy Esports (Article 4.16)
We want players to feel welcome to engage with fans in meaningful ways without crossing professional boundaries or raising conflicts of interest, that's why we clarified that esports professionals can participate in Riot-sanctioned Pick'ems contests, provided there are no rewards of monetary or real world value.
Reporting (Article 5.1)
Riot Games has strengthened its commitment to addressing serious misconduct by collaborating with law enforcement and government agencies, such as INTERPOL and NCMEC. By reporting potential violations of national laws to the relevant agency, we ensure that serious issues are escalated to the appropriate authorities, reinforcing our dedication to player safety and integrity.
Abiding by Decisions and Duty to Cooperate (Article 5.2)
With the launch of the Dispute Resolution for Riot Games Esports (EMEA) in 2024, Article 5.2 of the Code has been expanded to include non-compliance with DR decisions as a sanctionable offense. This ensures the DR remains an efficient mechanism for resolving disputes within the esports ecosystem.
Consequences (Article 5.4)
The updated Code emphasizes proportionality in sanctions and outlines joint liability for teams. Fines or monetary penalties may now be withheld from prize winnings or future payments, ensuring sanctions are meaningful and enforceable while addressing the severity of violations.
Interim Measures (Article 5.6)
The revised version of the Code clarifies the existing practice of imposing interim or provisional measures to ensure stakeholders fully understand how and when these measures are applied. Provisional measures, including suspensions, enable Riot to act swiftly to prevent further harm to the Riot Esports Ecosystem and maintain competitive integrity. These measures are temporary and allow Riot to thoroughly assess the situation before determining whether to lift the suspension or impose appropriate disciplinary sanctions.
Attempting, Assisting, or Failing to Prevent Violations (Article 5.10)
The Code now explicitly states that infringements are punishable whether committed deliberately or negligently, by action or omission, and whether the individual acted as a principal, accomplice, or instigator. This ensures accountability at all levels.
Team Sanctions and Leadership Responsibilities (Article 5.11)
The revised Code codifies Riot's internal practice of holding team owners, coaches, and managers to higher standards of conduct, recognizing their influential roles in shaping the esports environment. This update reinforces the critical responsibility of leadership in promoting fairness, professionalism, and integrity across the ecosystem.
While the above highlights the most impactful changes, the full redlined version provides a comprehensive view of every update, allowing all stakeholders to understand the nuanced adjustments made to the Code.
"Riot Games is deeply committed to cultivating an esports ecosystem grounded in fairness, respect, and integrity," said Audrey Cech, Riot Games’ Global Head of Esports Rules & Compliance. "The 2025 Code reflects our ongoing dedication to empowering the global esports community and establishing a benchmark for excellence in competitive standards."
Localized versions of the Code will be available in mid-January to ensure accessibility for all stakeholders in their preferred languages. For further details and resources, visit www.competitiveops.riotgames.com.