Valve Updates Tournament Regulations and Bans the Display of Skin-Gambling Operator Logos at CS2 Events

Valve has updated the official rules for hosting Counter-Strike 2 tournaments, introducing changes to the Tournament Organizer Rules (TOR) and the Limited Game Tournament License. Under the new requirements, organizers are now strictly prohibited from showing logos or any other promotional content from skin-gambling operators during broadcasts. The restrictions apply to both major ranked events and smaller, non-ranked tournaments.

Ban on Displaying Skin-Gambling Advertising

The updated rules explicitly prohibit any form of advertising related to skin-gambling operators. This includes banners, graphical elements, mentions during studio segments, as well as logos placed on player jerseys or staff clothing. Tournament organizers must review team apparel in advance and ensure that such branding does not appear on stream.

Expanded Requirements for All Tournament Types

While similar restrictions previously applied mostly to large professional tournaments, the new rules now cover all event formats. Any organizer hosting a CS2 competition must comply with Valve’s regulations to avoid penalties or the risk of losing their tournament license.

Restrictions on Partner and Sponsor Selection

The updated regulations also prohibit organizers from partnering with sponsors that violate Valve’s agreements or local laws. This includes:

• third-party marketplaces reselling game keys;
• services that interact with player inventories outside approved rules;
• organizations whose activities may be considered illegal in certain jurisdictions;
• platforms that use in-game items for gambling mechanics.

These measures aim to improve transparency within the CS2 esports ecosystem, reduce the influence of grey markets, and ensure compliance with international standards.

Implications for CS2 Tournament Organizers

Organizers must now reassess partnerships, adjust broadcast graphics, and monitor team apparel to meet Valve’s updated requirements. Failure to comply may result in limitations on tournament rights or a revoked license.

The new restrictions highlight Valve’s commitment to maintaining a safer and more legally compliant environment around Counter-Strike 2 by eliminating the promotion of gambling schemes involving in-game items.