Match-Fixing Scandal Shakes VALORANT Scene

On May 16, 2025, esports figure Sean Gares released a viral video on X.com, accusing the Tier 2 VALORANT scene of widespread match-fixing. The video, which quickly surpassed 25 million views, claims that outside investors are bribing players to throw matches, often tied to illegal gambling and blackmail.

Gares, a former 100 Thieves coach and current GM of Shopify Rebellion’s SR Black roster, says he’s been investigating for a while and plans to release a detailed exposé soon. Many well-known VALORANT pros have reacted to the post, adding credibility to the claims.

Riot Games responded by pointing to their anti-match-fixing page, outlining partnerships with organizations like Sportradar and IBIA to monitor betting activity and protect match integrity across over 8,000 games annually.

If Gares’ claims prove true, this could become one of the biggest scandals in VALORANT’s history.

As a former esports player and current general manager, I see this as a deeply troubling issue. It doesn’t just affect the people directly involved—it damages the entire scene, including sponsors, organizations, and the public’s view of whether esports is legitimate or even should exist as a sport.

Game developers who want their games to thrive as esports titles must take this with the utmost seriousness. At the same time, every esports federation should treat this as a top priority on their agenda.

Gambling and skin betting are among the worst aspects of esports. It’s disheartening that the industry hasn’t stopped it. While I understand that it generates revenue, that does not justify how many individuals—often very young—end up as victims of this system.

Game developers can take concrete steps by banning betting-related advertising in and around their games. Esports federations, in turn, can enforce rules prohibiting clubs and organizations from having betting sponsors.

Esports’ biggest challenge is becoming sustainable—but building profitability on the backs of others’ misfortunes is not the right path. We need to find better ways. I know we can.