Genius Sports ceases commercial operations in Russia and Belarus

After similar moves from other companies, the sports data firm has decided to cease all commercial operations in Russia and Belarus, following the former’s invasion of Ukraine on 24 February.

“Genius Sports confirms that as a result of events in Ukraine, we are ceasing all commercial operations in Russia and Belarus,” stated the company.

“At all times our priority remains ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our colleagues, their families and loved ones in the region. Our thoughts are with the Ukrainian people.”

Genius’ decision to halt its operations in Russia and its co-belligerent neighbour Belarus is a step that many businesses have taken,

Last week, several operators announced their intention to suspend betting on sporting events in Russia and Belarus, including Sweden’s LeoVegas.

Its CEO Gustaf Hagman commented in a LinkedIn post: “Following the invasion of Ukraine, LeoVegas Group has decided to suspend all betting on Russian and Belarusian domestic sports.”

Likewise, PointsBet, DraftKings and FanDuel all pulled their support for sporting events in both Russia and Belarus, a move that will likely affect several major competitions, including the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).

Besides these moves from major brands, several organisations have also collaborated on a GoFundMe campaign entitled Gaming Industry for Ukraine.

This intends to raise £250,000 ($333,000) for Choose Love’s Ukraine Crisis fundraiser, and has, at the time of writing, raised £183,312 from 188 donations.