Visa Signs Three-Year Mobile Esports Deal with MOONTON Games

Visa and MOONTON Games have extended their collaboration with a new three-year agreement announced on September 21, 2026. Visa will serve as the Global Payment Partner for the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) M Series, covering the M8, M9, and M10 world championships from 2027 through 2029. This deal builds on their previous cooperation during the M7 event and aims to streamline the fan experience across the tournament’s global audience.

The M Series is currently the most-watched mobile esports tournament in history, having recorded 5.68 million peak concurrent viewers according to Esports Charts. As the payment network, Visa will facilitate transactions for millions of fans who engage with the event annually. The partnership is designed to integrate payment solutions directly into the fan journey, making access to tickets and related services more seamless for international audiences.

Cardholders gain exclusive tournament benefits

A key component of the agreement involves tangible perks for Visa cardholders. Participants will receive preferential access to tickets for the upcoming M8, M9, and M10 championships. Beyond standard entry, the partnership introduces opportunities to win VIP Zone access, meet-and-greets with players, and behind-the-scenes tours. These incentives are intended to bring fans closer to their favorite teams and enhance the overall event experience.

European debut marks global expansion

The timing of the partnership coincides with the M Series expanding its international footprint. The M8 World Championship in 2027 will mark the tournament’s first appearance in Europe. This expansion aligns with MOONTON Games’ global strategy unveiled earlier this year. Visa’s infrastructure, which operates in more than 200 countries and territories, is positioned to support this growth by handling cross-border payments efficiently.

Executive leaders from both companies emphasized the strategic value of the collaboration. Danielle Jin, Chief Marketing Officer at Visa Asia Pacific, noted that mobile gaming is changing how people connect and spend. Tiger Xu, Global Head of MLBB Esports at MOONTON Games, described the multi-year deal as a natural next step in the franchise’s globalization. Both parties aim to create a more connected and rewarding experience for the global community.

Strategic shift in gaming commerce

This move reflects a broader trend in the gaming industry where payment networks are seeking deeper integration with esports ecosystems. By becoming the official payment partner, Visa is not just processing transactions but curating fan experiences. The partnership strengthens Visa’s portfolio of gaming alliances and underscores the growing economic relevance of mobile esports. For readers, the primary takeaway is that holding a Visa card may soon offer direct advantages in accessing major global gaming events.