Match fixing in esports betting is a prevalent issue that poses various challenges. One contributing factor is the availability of markets on matches with low prize money, making the potential earnings from betting more attractive. This is especially true in tier-two and tier-three esports, where financial struggles are common among players aspiring to reach higher levels of success.
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive and Dota 2 are the primary games involved in match fixing and betting fraud, followed by League of Legends to a lesser extent. Other games account for a small percentage of the market. Counter-Strike holds a significant share of the global esports betting turnover, despite being highly unregulated due to the limited involvement of its publisher, Valve, in organizing leagues and tournaments.
This lack of regulation allows tournament operators, regardless of their size, to host events with little oversight. Many of these operators lack the necessary resources and knowledge to implement preventive measures against match fixing. To combat this issue effectively, joining the ESIC (Esports Integrity Commission) is currently the best approach. However, alternative options include implementing robust regulations, educating players, and establishing official data partnerships with companies that can detect suspicious or unusual betting activities.
In esports, there are different tiers of competition: tier-one, tier-two, and tier-three. Tier-one competitions, such as the Majors and notable championships in games like League of Legends, attract highly organized teams from well-resourced organizations. These organizations often have teams competing in multiple games, providing a strong support system. They participate in prestigious events like the ESL Pro League or BLAST Premier, ensuring high visibility.
Below tier-one, the competition becomes more aspirational but also highly competitive. This can be compared to different collegiate levels of sports in the American context, with the NFL (National Football League) being the top tier. In esports, players at tier-two or three have potential but face limited opportunities for advancement. Prize money at this level is low, creating financial pressures and increased temptation for match fixing, especially in less significant competitions.
In these lower tiers, where there is often a lack of structure, individuals may prioritize survival and quick cash over fair play. Without a clear ladder to climb or consequences for their actions, the allure of match fixing becomes stronger. However, it is important to note that getting caught engaging in such activities can have severe repercussions.
