Continuous integration plays a vital role in DevOps practices by automating the integration of code changes into a shared repository. This practice encourages developers to frequently commit their code, allowing for early detection of issues and improved collaboration among team members. By running automated tests on every change, continuous integration ensures that new code integrates smoothly with existing codebases, reducing integration problems. This process fosters agility and speeds up the release cycle, enabling teams to deliver high-quality software more efficiently and respond quickly to market demands.