Visa Becomes Official Payment Partner of M7 World Championship in First MLBB Esports Deal

Visa has entered the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) esports ecosystem for the first time, signing on as the Official Payment Partner of the M7 World Championship.

The partnership aligns the global payments leader with one of the world’s most-watched mobile esports franchises, which recorded 475 million hours watched in 2024.

Growing Influence of MLBB in Global Esports

MLBB, operated by MOONTON Games, has amassed more than 1.5 billion total installs and maintains over 110 million monthly active users, with a strong foothold across Southeast Asia.

Global head of Partnerships, MLBB Esports at MOONTON Games, Adrian Cher, said the partnership signals a new stage in the commercial maturity of mobile esports.

“Having Visa onboard for the M7 World Championship is a huge milestone for the industry.”

“This collaboration strengthens our ability to elevate fan experiences, while empowering young people to engage confidently in the digital economy,” Cher said. 

Chief marketing officer, Asia Pacific, Visa, Danielle Jin, added how the partnership aligns with the organisation’s commitment to supporting next-generation consumers.

“At Visa, we believe in empowering the next generation to pursue their passions by making digital payments simple, safe and accessible.”

“We look forward to celebrating the spirit of competition and innovation with MLBB fans at the M7,” Jin said. 

The partnership will integrate Visa’s secure digital payment solutions into MLBB’s global esports platforms, providing fans with streamlined and reliable access to ticketing, digital purchases, and exclusive tournament experiences.

Empowering the Next Generation of Digital Consumers

The agreement highlights both organisations’ shared commitment to supporting youth-driven digital culture and expanding financial inclusion through secure payment technology.

Nearly 60% of MLBB players are between the ages of 19 and 32, representing a highly engaged, mobile-first demographic that is rapidly shaping Asia’s digital payments landscape.

Exclusive Benefits for Visa Cardholders

Visa cardholders will benefit from exclusive offers tied to M7, including a 20% discount on tournament tickets throughout the regular sale period.

Additional premium fan experiences will be introduced closer to the event, ranging from backstage access to meet-and-greet opportunities with professional players.

M7 Returns to Jakarta in 2026

The M7 World Championship returns to Jakarta in January 2026, uniting 22 international teams competing for a USD1 million (AUD1.5 miullion) prize pool.

The tournament follows the commercial success of last year’s M6, which generated an estimated €115 million (AUD204 million) in brand value through digital engagement and streaming.

Realme has also been confirmed as the Official Gaming Phone for M7, joining Visa among the event’s global partners.

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