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As partners in the BLAST-organised tournament in Paris, Absolut Vodka and Ballantine’s Scotch whisky, Jameson Irish Whiskey, will make their collective esports debuts at France’s first Counter-Strike Major, May 2023. This will see the best CS:GO players from around the globe descend on Paris to compete in a $1.25m cash prize pool.
This partnership is a reflection of the common mission of all brands to connect and bring people together from all parts of the globe. Ballantine’s Scotch Whisky is Europe’s No.1 Scotch Whisky. The brand, which proudly supports those who are true to themselves, entered the gaming market last year through its collaboration to Gearbox’s franchise Borderlands The Game. It recruited Mad Moxxi, the game’s protagonist, to broaden the category’s appeal.
Absolut Vodka is partnering with esports and gaming companies for the first time. Since 1979, the iconic brand has been a pioneer in forward-thinking and inclusive experiences. This is all in the name positive change through diversity and connection. Through this partnership, Jameson Irish Whiskey (the world’s most beloved and shared Irish whiskey) also debuts in the exciting world of esports.
Behind closed doors, the brands will meet with key players to share stories about past legends, current champs, and other Counter Strike news. The partnership includes sponsorship of the Overtime Show, where members from the Paris Major broadcast talent group discuss all things Counter-Strike. It will also include immersive experiences at the tournament, fan-led party activations in multiple countries, digital branding, broadcast content integration with BLAST.tv’s 100+ global territories reach, and social giveaways.
Oliver Clarke, Commercial Director of BLAST said that they were delighted to welcome Jameson, Ballantine and Absolut onboard for the BLAST.tv Paris Major. This is their first large-scale, collaborative esports partnership. We look forward working together to provide unique content, digital integrations, and activations for the global gaming community at one the most prestigious and beloved esports events in the world.
Tom Elton is Ballantine’s Global Head for Culture & Partnerships. He stated that “Our brands are about the shared moments and with esports at a centre of new communities around the globe, we are thrilled to announce Absolut, Ballantine, and Jameson’s partnership with BLAST.tv Paris Major 2020. This year marks the 10th anniversary celebration and the final CS:GO Majors. Online gaming continues to gain popularity and we are thrilled that this championship will be held in Pernod Ricard’s home country, France.
The BLAST.tv Paris Major esports event is one of the most prestigious and highly-regarded in the year. It offers thousands of teams the chance to compete for a PS1.25 Million prize pool, a chance at immortalizing their names in Counter-Strike folklore, and a chance to be named the best in the world.
The BLAST.tv Paris Major is one of many high-profile international events that will be held in France in the coming years. It joins the 2023 Rugby World Cup and 2024 Olympic, Paralympic Games and Games in Paris, and the 2025 Rugby League World Cup.
2023 will mark 10 years of Counter-Strike Majors. The BLAST.tv Minor will commemorate this milestone by looking back on some of the most memorable moments from Counter-Strike and esports.
