Movember becomes official mental health partner of LEC, VCT an Game Changers EMEA

Movember has been appointed the Official Mental Health Partner of VALORANT Champions Tour EMEA, Game Changers EMEA and LEC for two seasons, spanning 2026 and 2027. The aim is to embed mental health tools, resources, and prevention-focused messaging across both broadcasts and on-site events. Drawing on Movember’s international expertise, this collaboration is intended to foster a competitive environment that is healthier and more supportive. The partnership was formally initiated at a pre-season Player Summit, where Movember was introduced to players and teams.

Movember is an international charitable organisation, initially recognised for its annual November campaign in which participants grow a moustache to raise awareness and funds. Over time, its remit has broadened: Movember now works to advance both mental and physical health, with particular emphasis on suicide prevention, psychological support, and certain cancers. The organisation funds programmes, develops practical resources, and encourages open dialogue to help reduce stigma, prioritising accessible, community-led solutions.

Maximilian Peter Schmidt, Director of League of Legends Esports, EMEA, about the partnership: "Partnering with Movember allows us to take our commitment to supporting the well-being of our players and teams to the next level. We want our community to feel empowered to speak openly about the challenges they face and know resources are available if needed. Gaming should be a safe and healthy space for everyone, and this partnership will help us ensure that the environment is maintained and strengthened."

As part of the initiative, LEC and VCT EMEA teams will receive mental health awareness and response training, enabling staff to better identify warning signs and respond appropriately to potential difficulties. In parallel, mental health messaging will feature consistently across broadcasts and live events, with the objective of normalising conversation and reinforcing that support is available when needed.

Additional measures are also being considered, including workshops focused on stress management, coping strategies, and resilience-building, as well as player-only roundtables designed to facilitate candid discussion around pressure, reduce reliance on unhealthy coping mechanisms, and encourage more sustainable habits within the esports ecosystem.