Sportradar signs integrity deal for Activision Blizzard’s esports events

Sports data and integrity services provider Sportradar has entered into an integrity agreement with Activision Blizzard Esports, organizer of the Overwatch League and Call of Duty League esports competitions.

The agreement with Activision Blizzard will see Sportradar Integrity Services monitor global betting activity relating to the Overwatch League and Call of Duty League tournaments to help safeguard the integrity of the competitions.

Sportradar will also provide both leagues with access to its Intelligence and Investigation Services unit, with the two companies working together to review Activision Blizzard’s in-house integrity policies, procedures, and future educational programs for professional esports competitors.

“Call of Duty League and Overwatch League have long taken steps to safeguard the integrity of matches, and working with Sportradar is a step to further reinforce the importance of fair play,” said Activision Blizzard Esports head of strategic initiatives Jason Hahn.

“As our esports activities continue to grow and as fans increasingly engage with wagering on matches, we need to ensure we are doing as much as we can to proactively protect our ecosystem.

“Working with Sportradar, an industry leader, is important in protecting our players, teams and matches and giving fans the best experience they deserve. We look forward to establishing this relationship with Sportradar and continued expansion of our work together.”

Sportradar is also developing an app to enable players to anonymously report suspected integrity issues.

“Integrity is a crucial component to the overall success of esports, especially in a time with more betting opportunities available and more tournaments taking place,” said Andy Cunningham, Sportradar head of integrity services and league relations for North America. “We look forward to working with The Overwatch League and Call of Duty League to fortify their already powerful integrity measures.”