- VMware ended the VMware Advantage Partner program at the end of January 2026
- Hundreds of European CSPs will lose their ability to resell VMware software
- CISPE and other critics warn of higher prices and reduced sovereignty
Broadcom has ended the Advantage Partner Program for VMware Cloud Service Providers (VCSP), confirming that it will not renew partner contracts effective January 26, 2026, meaning only certain partners will be able to join, resulting in a narrower selection of providers for customers.
This change is expected to affect hundreds of European cloud service providers, each with their own loyal customer base, and they are obviously not happy.
Broadcom presented the change as responding to “changing customer requirements,” noting the growing adoption of VMware Cloud Foundation.
CISPE has already criticized Broadcom’s takeover of VMware and the changes that were made: in December 2025, the European group of cloud providers accused the European Commission of failing to properly assess the risks associated with the Broadcom acquisition.
“By approving the deal, Brussels has given Broadcom a blank check to raise prices, retain and retain customers,” wrote Secretary General Francisco Mingorence.
Kristian Liivak, CTO of VCSP partner WaveCom, accused the “bulldozer named Broadcom” of having “finally rolled”[ing] on other EU cloud service providers, ending almost all VMware partner contracts” (via The register). WaveCom joined CISPE only a few days ago, linking its membership to European cloud sovereignty and not to the acquisition of VMware by Broadcom.
Liivak also noted that there are only 19 VSCPs left in the United States and that the same consolidation appears to be happening across Europe now.
Critics, including CISPE, warn that such market consolidation could ultimately lead to a reduction in competition and therefore higher prices for customers, but also a reduction in data sovereignty for European companies.
While Broadcom hasn’t commented on this specific topic, it has previously claimed that the ongoing changes help it deliver greater value and a more streamlined experience. The company’s leaders, including CEO Hock Tan, are well aware of the lingering discontent and mistrust.
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