British esports organisation Tundra Esports has announced a partnership with Ballantine’s scotch whisky ahead of Dota 2’s The International 2023.
Ballantine’s will act as the Official Spirit Partner for the organisation during the tournament. Ballantine’s branding will feature on Tundra Esports jerseys and the two brands will work on behind-the-scenes content together.
This is the first time that Ballantine’s is partnering with an esports organisation, though not the spirit company’s first esports sponsorship. Ballantine’s partnered with BLAST for the BLAST.tv Paris Major earlier this year, along with Jameson and Absolut. All three brands are owned by Pernod Ricard, a French spirit and wine conglomerate.
Tundra Esports is the defending The International champion, having won the 2022 edition by beating Team Secret. Alongside Dota 2, the organisation fields teams in Fortnite and Rocket League.
The first solo venture for Ballantine’s is also a rather interesting one. Along with featuring on Tundra jerseys, the brand will also work with Tundra on creating several content pieces during the tournament, called Afterwork Drinks, Sip of Knowledge, and TI Dream Team.
While TI Dream Team will see Tundra players create a roster of their favourite players, the other two formats will see Tundra coaches and staff talk about their daily activities and provide tips for gamers looking to play Dota 2 professionally.
In addition, Ballantine’s branding will also feature on in-game banners and flags during Tundra Esports matches.
Carleton Curtis, Chief Executive Officer of Tundra Esports, commented: “We are honoured to be the first esports team in history sponsored by Ballantine’s the Official Spirit Partner of our Dota 2 roster for the International 2023. This is a brilliant opportunity for us to work together in creating exciting new content and bring fans together around the world.”
The International 2023 will take place between October 12th and 29th in Seattle, United States.
