Mazepin Reportedly Buys Russian Gaming Giant Lesta

Nikita Mazepin, the son of a prominent Russian oligarch, is reportedly finalizing the purchase of Lesta Games, the developer behind the popular titles World of Tanks and World of Warships. According to reports from ASTRA, the former Formula One driver is in the final stages of negotiations for a deal valued between 45 and 50 billion rubles, roughly equivalent to $594 million.

This acquisition marks a significant shift in the ownership of one of Russia’s top internet companies. While Lesta Games holds a valuation of approximately $1.6 billion, the transaction involves complex legal and political hurdles, as both Mazepin and his father are subject to international sanctions. The move effectively consolidates control over a major segment of the country's digital economy under a new, high-profile figure.

Deal value reflects market strength

The reported purchase price places Lesta Games among the most valuable internet companies in Russia, ranking twelfth in recent Forbes assessments. Sources indicate that while the transaction documents are prepared, the final price remains the last point of contention. Mazepin, who serves as CEO of UKM Group, has confirmed that his company is actively pursuing deals in the digital technology and artificial intelligence sectors, though Lesta Games itself has declined to comment on the specific terms.

Nationalization follows geopolitical tensions

The path to this sale was paved by a series of events following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In 2022, the original developer, Wargaming, withdrew from the Russian market and transferred its local business operations to Lesta Games. Wargaming retained the global brand rights, while Lesta continued to operate the Russian versions of the games. This separation created a distinct entity that eventually became a target for state intervention.

In early 2025, Lesta Games reported record revenues but faced a crackdown from Russian authorities. The Prosecutor General’s Office seized the company’s assets, and its founders were designated as part of an extremist association due to their fundraising activities supporting Ukraine. This led to the nationalization of the company, with Boris Dobrodeev appointed as CEO, setting the stage for the current private sale to Mazepin.

Sanctions complicate the transaction

The involvement of the Mazepin family adds a layer of international scrutiny to the deal. Both Nikita and his father, Dmitry, are subject to sanctions imposed by Ukraine and several other nations. Dmitry Mazepin is a major shareholder in Uralchem and was formerly a co-owner of Uralkali. For readers, this means the transaction is not just a business move but a geopolitical one, potentially exposing the buyer to further financial restrictions or diplomatic friction despite the domestic success of the gaming titles.