ESIC forms eSports advisory partnership with UK Gambling Commission

Non-profit Esports Integrity Coalition (ESIC) has detailed that it has signed a memorandum of understanding with the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), which will see the organisation become an adviser on the detection and prevention of betting malpractice within eSports.

Set-up in 2015, ESIC’s aim is to uphold the integrity of eSports and its related stakeholders against match manipulation and potential betting fraud.

As an advisor to the UKGC, ESIC will now form an information-sharing partnership with the commission and may be asked to give insight and opinion for the UKGC on matters relating to eSports integrity.

Ian Smith Commissioner for ESIC commented on the partnership “This memorandum of understanding is a significant step for ESIC and the eSports community,”

“The Gambling Commission has significant resources and powers that will be invaluable in helping to combat any emergence of organised crime or serious fraud within our rapidly growing sector.”

ESIC expects to publish a guidance note to its members in the coming weeks, explaining its arrangements with the UKGC.

Richard Watson, Programme Director at the UK Gambling Commission adds, “Esports is a developing sector that offers new challenges for the betting industry, with potential for further market growth.

This agreement demonstrates our commitment to supporting ESIC in addressing the potential integrity risks, to help maintain public confidence in esports both as entertainment and for those who wish to place bets on British licenced markets”.