Game developer Riot Games has appointed long-time employee Carlos Antunes as its Head of League of Legends Esports for the Americas.
In his new role, Antunes will be responsible for overseeing the League of Legends esports ecosystem for North America, Latin America and Brazil. Previously Antunes’ duties only included Riot Games’ CBLOL (Brazil) and LLA (LATAM) competitions.
Alongside overseeing the LCS, North America’s tier-one league, Antunes will be tasked with hiring a new LCS Commissioner. The LCS has been without a commissioner following the resignation of Jackie Felling in April. As a result of his new role, Antunes will relocate from Brazil to Riot Games’ headquarters in Los Angeles.
According to a release, Antunes has led strategic partnerships and business development initiatives for the CBLOL with partners such as Gillette, Red Bull, Santander, Heineken, and Nestlé.
The LCS has undergone a turbulent period since Riot Games moved the League of Legends competition from weekend to weekday broadcasts. Following this change, which was announced last year, the LCS’ viewership has decreased. The competition’s Summer Split was also temporarily postponed following an agreed-upon LCS player walkout.
The new Head of League of Legends Esports for the Americas commented: It’s been an incredible honour to be a part of Riot Games and the esports community. Over the past several years, being close to players, teams, and fans has been immensely gratifying, especially in contributing to the growth of leagues that unite our passionate community.
“As I transition into my new role, I am committed to exploring new ways to deliver sports and entertainment to our community across the Americas.”
Antunes, who has been a part of Riot Games since 2016, was previously a Director of Digital Strategy at Brazilian agency DM9DDB.
