In a move that marks a significant departure from industry norms, Danish Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) eSports team Ecstatic has announced a landmark partnership with Gamban, making the gambling prevention organization its main sponsor.
This collaboration is the first of its kind, pairing a professional esports team with an organization dedicated to combating gambling harm.
The partnership extends beyond mere brand placement on jerseys. Both Ecstatic and Gamban are set to launch a community Discord hub designed as a safe space for fans.
This platform will provide access to anonymous peer support groups, talks from experts, and practical tools for individuals seeking to control or cease their gambling activities.
The initiative aims to destigmatize seeking help, particularly for younger fans who may be hesitant to use traditional support channels.
This decision stands in stark contrast to the prevailing trend in esports, where approximately 80% of top CS2 teams are sponsored by gambling operators.
High-profile deals, such as Team Vitality’s recent multi-year agreement with Stake, underscore the industry’s deep financial ties to the betting sector.
However, the leadership at Ecstatic eSports believes this new direction is not only necessary but also personal. Co-Owner Oliver “zipeL” Behrensdorff explained the team’s motivation:
“This is personal for me. I’ve had periods of problem gambling myself, and installing Gamban was my first step toward change. We’re not here to high-road anyone. We’re here to offer a lifeline to those who need one.”
The collaboration also aims to prove the commercial viability of non-gambling sponsorships within the esports ecosystem. By championing a message of player welfare, both organizations hope to inspire other brands to invest responsibly in the rapidly growing space.
Matt Zarb-Cousin, Co-Founder of Gamban, commented on the shared vision:
“For 10 years, Gamban has helped people block access to gambling on their devices and begin their recovery. Partnering with a team that rejects gambling sponsorship entirely is a powerful first step. We hope this inspires others to invest in esports without exploiting addiction.”
