As Regulating the Game prepares for its sixth edition in Sydney, GLI’s continued sponsorship of the Gala Dinner reinforces the conference’s vital role in shaping future gaming policy, fostering innovation, and cultivating ethical leadership worldwide.

Regulating the Game announced that Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) will return as the Gala Dinner sponsor for the 2026 conference, reaffirming its status as a foundation sponsor and valued partner in promoting regulatory excellence, sector integrity, and global collaboration.

Now in its sixth edition, Regulating the Game has established itself as a leading international conference for gambling law, policy, and compliance as well as showcasing industry innovation and leadership. The event returns to Sydney in March 2026 with a bold and dynamic program designed to advance capability, challenge conventional thinking, and cultivate ethical and innovative leadership across the sector.

GLI’s renewed sponsorship highlights its enduring commitment to industry integrity and its strong alignment with the conference’s mission to promote evidence-led policy, ethical governance, and safer gambling outcomes.

Paul Newson, principal at Vanguard Overwatch and founder of Regulating the Game, welcomed the continued partnership: “GLI has been an unwavering supporter since the inception of Regulating the Game. Their ongoing sponsorship of the Gala Dinner not only enhances the event’s prestige but reflects a shared dedication to strengthening regulatory frameworks and industry resilience through global engagement, thought leadership, and rigorous standards.”

For over 35 years, GLI has provided world-class testing, certification, and professional services to regulators, suppliers, and operators across 710+ jurisdictions. GLI’s unwavering focus on independence and integrity has made it a trusted partner in supporting secure and compliant gaming markets.

Ian Hughes, chief commercial officer / CEO, APAC said: “At GLI, our mission is to help ensure the integrity of the global gaming industry through independent and trusted services. We are honoured to continue supporting Regulating the Game, a conference that champions innovation, fosters policy and industry dialogue, and helps shape the future of gaming through thought leadership, education and collaboration.”

The Regulating the Game 2026 Gala Dinner – one of the conference’s premier networking and celebration events – will again provide delegates with a memorable evening of exceptional hospitality, engagement, and recognition of sector leadership.

With Pitch! at the Sydney Opera House, an expanded Exhibition footprint and growing international program of regulatory and industry stewards, expert led masterclasses and panels, Regulating the Game 2026 is set to elevate regulatory discourse and strengthen cross-sector alliances.

The collaboration will introduce a range of immersive on-ground activations, Priceless Experiences and seamless payment solutions to enhance the fan journey 

The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) announced the return of Mastercard as an official event supplier for the 2025 Esports World Cup, the world’s largest esports event, set to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from July 7 to August 24. The renewed partnership underscores Mastercard’s continued commitment to elevating digital experiences, championing youth engagement, and supporting the Kingdom’s rapidly growing gaming ecosystem.

Through the collaboration with the Esports World Cup, Mastercard will introduce a range of immersive on-ground activations and seamless payment solutions designed to enhance the overall fan journey. This will include creating a bespoke version of the Mastercard Gamer Academy, where Mastercard, in collaboration with G2 Esports and Esports World Cup, designed a one-of-a-kind experience that will provide 10 successful applicants with the opportunity to be mentored by professionals on how they could pursue a career in esports. Further, fans can collect Priceless Points by interacting with the games and activities available at the Mastercard booth for the chance to win ultimate gaming gear that will be rewarded to the top scoring players. Further, there will be live appearances by G2 Esports players to be hosted as fireside chats to talk about areas like pro esports. The brand’s presence will emphasize the intersection of technology, gaming, and culture, anchored by initiatives that highlight and support local Saudi talent.

“Mastercard’s return as a partner reflects the Esports World Cup’s evolution from a tournament into a global cultural platform,” said Mohammed Al Nimer, Chief Commercial Officer, Esports World Cup Foundation. “Together, we’re creating impactful experiences that go beyond gameplay, uniting youth empowerment, digital inclusion, and immersive fan engagement. Mastercard’s focus on Priceless experiences and innovation makes them an ideal partner to help us inspire the next generation of gamers and connect with fans in meaningful and memorable ways.”

Saud Swar, Country Manager, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan and other Levant, Mastercard added, “We are proud to deepen our partnership with the Esports World Cup Foundation as we continue to unlock the potential of gaming in the Kingdom. In line with Saudi Vision 2030, Mastercard is committed to connecting people to their passions, driving innovation, and inspiring the next generation. Our priceless experiences help empower youth, promote digital inclusion, and celebrate Saudi Arabia’s vibrant esports culture.”

This partnership builds on Mastercard’s long-standing global support for the gaming and esports industry, including its strategic sponsorship of Riot Games’ League of Legends and VALORANT. It reinforces Mastercard’s leadership in digital payments and its role in shaping future-facing experiences through youth engagement and innovation.

The 2025 Esports World Cup will host 25 tournaments across 24 game titles, bringing together over 2,000 elite players and 200 Clubs from more than 100 countries. With a record-breaking prize pool of over $70 million, the event will offer fans a comprehensive entertainment experience, from high-stakes competition and live music to anime cafés, retro arcades, cosplay showcases, and more, cementing Riyadh’s position as a global esports and entertainment hub.