Double Triumph in Rome: 1xBet Wins Big at Affiliate Grand Slam Awards 2026

In the historic setting of Rome, iGaming giant 1xBet has once again demonstrated its dominance in marketing and partnerships. During the SiGMA World conference, the Affiliate Grand Slam Awards 2026 were presented, and the company took home two of the most coveted trophies. These awards are a direct result of a strategic shift in partner interaction that goes far beyond industry standards. The company relies on concepts that not only strengthen brand awareness but are also designed to drive the development of the entire industry.

The jury paid particular attention to the creativity and detail of the projects. Instead of limiting themselves to traditional B2B activities, the team developed formats featuring unique scenarios and meticulous planning. This was particularly evident in events that serve as a platform for exchange between top affiliate leaders, media buyers, and investors. The recognition at the AGS Awards 2026 now serves as additional motivation to launch even bolder projects and expand opportunities for partners worldwide in the coming season.

Numbers and facts

A central pillar of the success was the Platform 1X event, held during the MAC conference in Yerevan. Here, the team transformed the venue into a 1990s-style express train. Retro train cars served as private VIP lounges, with access strictly limited to personal QR codes. This campaign was large-scale: more than 14,000 people participated in the month-long B2B campaign, involving 647 direct partners.

No expense was spared financially either. A Rolex Datejust 41 was raffled off on the main stage, while the total prize pool for the promotion reached 35,000 euros. This included 12,000 USDT, which finalists received directly on-site. The atmosphere was enhanced by a live performance from the band Bi-2. In the Best Industry Merch category, the second award won, 10 unique collections were released throughout the year. More than 729 premium gifts were distributed, ranging from designer swimsuits to HidrateSpark smart water bottles.

Background

The Best Industry Merch award reflects a radical change in strategy. 1xPartners, the operator's affiliate program, now focuses on themed collections tailored to specific locations and audiences. For instance, at SiGMA Americas in Brazil and SBC Malta, beach sets with premium towels and AirPods were provided, while at GGate in Tbilisi, Gen-Z style streetwear with oversized shirts and track jackets dominated. At iGB Live in London, the focus shifted to business premium accessories like leather laptop cases.

„This success reflects the work done on partner interaction formats. 1xBet develops not only traditional B2B activities, but also projects with unique concepts, thought-out details, and their own scenarios.“ - Official jury statement at the AGS Awards

In addition to 1xBet, Riddick’s Partners also had reason to celebrate, winning the award for Best iGaming Affiliate Network 2026. This firm integrates internal teams for media buying, SEO, and analytics to scale products globally. The presentation of these awards in Rome highlights the importance of the Italian location for the global networking of the gambling industry, even as regulatory hurdles in Europe continue to grow.

Why it matters for German players

For German players, news about international awards is primarily a sign of the economic strength of global players. However, caution is advised: 1xBet often operates internationally under licenses from Curacao or other offshore territories, which directly conflicts with the German State Treaty on Gambling (GlüStV 2021). In Germany, only providers listed on the official whitelist of the GGL (Joint Gambling Authority of the States) are allowed to operate legally. These strict rules are designed for player protection and crime prevention.

Anyone playing online in Germany must adhere to the deposit limit of 1,000 euros per month, monitored via the central LUGAS system. Furthermore, virtual slots have a stake limit of one euro per spin and a mandatory 5-second pause between spins. Providers without a German license often do not offer these protections, making their offer illegal for German customers. Winnings from unlicensed providers can be legally difficult to enforce, which is why choosing a GGL-licensed casino is essential for legal certainty and player protection.

What it means for GGL-licensed casinos

The dominance of global operators at awards ceremonies like the AGS Awards increases the pressure on German licensees. GGL-licensed casinos must prove that they can compete in marketing despite strict advertising restrictions and technical requirements. While international operators shine with luxury watches and massive B2B events, the focus in Germany is on compliance with social concepts and addiction prevention. For German operators, this means finding creative ways to conduct affiliate marketing within the legal framework without violating the GGL's strict guidelines, which, for example, prohibit aggressive bonus promises.