- 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 VMware Cloud Service Provider (VCSP) Advantage Partner Program, confirming that it will not renew partner contracts starting January 26, 2026, meaning only select partners will be able to join and resulting in a smaller selection of providers for customers.
The change will affect hundreds of European cloud service providers, each with their own loyal customer base, and they are understandably unhappy.
Broadcom has framed the change as one that meets “changing customer requirements,” highlighting the increased adoption of VMware Cloud Foundation.
CISPE has already criticized Broadcom’s acquisition of VMware and subsequent changes: 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 agreement, Brussels handed Broadcom a blank check to increase prices, secure and squeeze customers,” wrote Secretary General Francisco Mingorence.
Kristian Liivak, chief technology officer at VCSP partner WaveCom, accused the “excavator called Broadcom” of “finally rolling.”[ing] on the remaining EU cloud service providers, terminating almost all VMware partner contracts” (via The Registry). WaveCom joined CISPE just a few days ago, tying membership to European cloud sovereignty and not Broadcom’s acquisition of VMware.
Liivak also noted that there are only 19 VSCPs left in the US and that the same consolidation appears to be happening across Europe right now.
Critics, including CISPE, warn that such market consolidation could ultimately lead to less competition and therefore higher prices for customers, but also to reduced data sovereignty for European companies.
While Broadcom has not commented on this specific issue, it has previously stated that ongoing changes help it deliver greater value and a more streamlined experience. Company leaders, including CEO Hock Tan, are well aware of the current dissatisfaction and mistrust.
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