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Marvel Rivals has officially opened global applications for its Ignite Team Partners Program, a new cornerstone initiative designed to shape the game’s competitive esports future. Backed by NetEase Games, the program is offering just 12 exclusive founding partner slots to top-tier professional esports organisations worldwide.

The limited nature of the programme signals a long-term commitment to building a structured global ecosystem, with selected teams playing a direct role in how Marvel Rivals esports evolves heading into 2026 and beyond.

A Long Term Vision For Competitive Marvel Rivals

The Ignite Team Partners Program is positioned as more than a standard team partnership. NetEase describes it as a shared vision model, where partner organisations collaborate closely with the publisher across competition, content, and community development.

Selected teams will receive guaranteed access to top-tier global Marvel Rivals competitions, along with the opportunity to co-create future competitive formats and community initiatives. This direct involvement allows partners to influence how tournaments, leagues, and fan engagement are shaped from the ground up.

Branding, Revenue Sharing, And Development Access

One of the biggest incentives is the commercial and branding support built into the programme. Partner teams will gain integrated exposure across global broadcasts, the Marvel Rivals game client, and official marketing channels.

Revenue sharing from events is also part of the offer, alongside priority access to collaborative business opportunities, including exclusive in-game content and promotional activations. Teams will also benefit from early access to pre-release builds and maintain direct communication with the development team, giving them insight into upcoming changes and competitive balance.

What Teams Need To Submit

To apply, esports organisations must prepare a comprehensive proposal package that outlines both their current operations and future plans within Marvel Rivals.

Applications must include an organisation overview covering corporate structure, financial backing, and esports history. Teams are also required to introduce key leadership figures across management, coaching, operations, and content creation.

A full brand identity kit for the proposed Marvel Rivals division is required, including the team name, logo, slogan, and any promotional or introductory video materials. Finally, applicants must submit a detailed 2026 partnership roadmap, outlining team development, content strategy, community management plans, and competitive goals for the inaugural Ignite season.

Application Timeline And Key Dates

The application window opened on December 30, 2025, and will remain open until January 15, 2026. Submissions must be sent via email with the subject line “[Organization Name] – Marvel Rivals Partners Program Application”.

The evaluation phase runs from January 16 to January 18, during which NetEase’s selection committee will review all entries and begin direct follow-ups with shortlisted teams. The final 12 founding partners will be selected before February, with the official announcement scheduled for a later date to mark the start of the Marvel Rivals Ignite 2026 series.

All applications should be sent to marvelrivalsesports@service.netease.com.

A Rare Entry Point Into A New Esports Ecosystem

With only 12 spots available globally, the Ignite Team Partners Program represents a rare opportunity for organisations looking to establish themselves early in a new esports title. NetEase has made it clear that it is seeking teams with proven operational excellence, competitive ambition, and a genuine commitment to growing the Marvel Rivals community.

For organisations ready to invest long term, this programme could define their place in the competitive future of Marvel Rivals.