Fnatic Raises $7M to Expand Esports Dominance with Major Sports Investors
Caption: Fnatic’s Dota 2 squad prepares for competition. (Image Credit: Fnatic)
One of esports’ most iconic organizations is accelerating its growth strategy. Fnatic, the powerhouse behind professional teams in League of Legends, Counter-Strike, Dota 2, and other major titles, has secured $7 million in new funding from high-profile investors including:
- Raptor Group (ownership organization of the Boston Celtics)
- Joi Ito, MIT Media Lab director
- Hannes Wallin, Fractal Design CEO
- Hersh Interactive Group
The Booming Esports Economy
The investment comes as the global esports market is projected to generate $696 million in 2017 revenue (excluding fantasy esports and gambling), according to Newzoo’s industry report. Analysts predict this could surge to $1.5 billion by 2020 as competitive gaming continues its meteoric rise.
Strategic Growth Plans
Fnatic will deploy the capital across three key areas:
Talent Development
- Hiring coaches, analysts, and sports psychologists
- Expanding academy teams to nurture new talent
Infrastructure Expansion
- Upgrading training facilities
- Enhancing performance optimization programs
Brand Growth
- Scaling merchandising operations
- Developing innovative fan engagement strategies
“The esports industry has experienced tremendous growth,” said Fnatic founder Sam Mathews. “With support from world-class investors, we’re positioned to lead the next wave of innovation in competitive gaming.”
Traditional Sports Embrace Esports
This investment reflects a broader trend of traditional sports organizations entering esports:
- Cloud9 secured funding from NFL legend Joe Montana in March 2017
- LA Dodgers co-owner Todd Boehly has made esports investments
- Golden State Warriors co-owner Chamath Palihapitiya backs gaming ventures
“Fnatic is pioneering new models of engagement in esports,” said Chris Pallotta, Raptor Group investment officer. “Their approach will influence the broader sports and entertainment landscape.”
Editor’s Note: A previous version incorrectly stated Hersh Interactive Group owns the Houston Astros. We regret the error.
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