Riot Games Introduces Esports Arbitration Court for EMEA

Riot Games has launched a new system called Dispute Resolution for Esports in EMEA, aimed at helping players, coaches, and teams resolve conflicts in League of Legends and VALORANT. The initiative focuses on contractual and financial disputes, enhancing stability and professionalism in the EMEA esports scene.

Management by Martens Law Firm

To oversee this arbitration court, Riot has engaged Martens, a European law firm specializing in sports law. Martens will independently handle claims and determine outcomes based on their experience in creating the Basketball Arbitral Tribunal for the International Basketball Federation.

Riot’s announcement states that this system will cover “disputes over unpaid salaries, bonuses, prize money, and transfer disagreements,” establishing a reliable and transparent framework for esports participants.

Arbitration Availability

The arbitration service is available to participants in Tier 1 and Tier 2 leagues for League of Legends and VALORANT, allowing approximately 1,500 players across the EMEA region to access it.

Statement from Riot’s EMEA Esports Rules & Compliance Manager

Valérie Horyna, Riot’s EMEA Esports Rules & Compliance Manager, emphasized the necessity of this program:

“Esports is still growing and we think that contractual stability and honor is more important than ever.” Horyna noted that resolving contractual disputes has sometimes been challenging, especially in EMEA’s diverse legal landscape, and the program aims to offer a simple, accessible solution.

Key Facts about the Dispute Resolution Program

• Cost of Filing Claims: Filing fees vary depending on the size of the dispute. Claimants pay an administrative fee ranging from €500 to €4,000, followed by an arbitration fee (shared between the parties) between €1,000 and €5,000.
• Submission Process: Each party can submit one written submission, and typically no hearings are conducted. One of the 14 experts from Martens’ team reviews the documents and makes a decision based on ex aequo et bono principles, which focus on fairness over strict legal conformity.
• Decision Transparency: Some decisions may be issued without reasoning, a measure Riot and Martens believe will lower costs and improve affordability.

Support Fund for Legal Aid

Riot is also establishing a legal aid fund to help claimants cover arbitration costs. This fund will provide financial assistance to eligible participants within an annual funding limit, ensuring fair access for those in need.

According to Riot, this fund is expected to discourage unfair practices within the esports scene, fostering a balanced and healthier ecosystem. The program aims to allow players, teams, and staff to seek equitable resolutions, building trust and stability essential for the long-term success of esports.

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