ECS, Genius target integrity with esports first

Genius Sports and FACEIT have joined forces with the Esports Championship Series (ECS) to improve the way data and statistics are used to engage with fans.

Under the agreement, Genius Sports has developed a CS:GO analytics platform that will provide real-time, data-driven predictions, with plans in place to integrate this with the league ahead of the new season, which begins on April 14.

The ECS will also benefit from the Genius Sports Esports Bet Monitoring System, which will allow it to observe betting markets in real-time and receive alerts of unusual market patterns.

In a joint statement, the ECs and Genius Sports said the solution was developed in response to concerns over match-fixing and skin betting in the esports sector.

The two parties added that the technology behind the system is the first of its kind to be used in a professional esports competition.

“We are very aware of the challenges all leagues face as the industry grows and we felt this was a logical next step to safeguard our fans and stakeholders,” FACEIT co-founder and chief business officer Michele Attisani said.

“Genius Sports is the trusted and go-to platform for all major sports leagues, their unrivalled experience in this sector alongside the newly-developed technology specifically designed for CS:GO makes them an integral partner for ECS as the league continues to grow.”

Mark Locke, chief executive of Genius Sports, added: “As well as help ensure players and fans are treated to a fair and transparent game, ECS league representatives are equipped with information and tools necessary to maintain a clean, honest and exhilarating contest.”

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