The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced the launch of the Olympic Esports Games, with the first event scheduled for 2025 in Saudi Arabia.
This decision, endorsed during the 142nd IOC Session in Paris, marks a significant step in integrating esports into the Olympic movement.
Partnership with Saudi Arabia
The IOC has partnered with the National Olympic Committee (NOC) of Saudi Arabia for a 12-year collaboration to organize the Olympic Esports Games.
IOC President Thomas Bach praised this partnership, noting Saudi Arabia's expertise in esports.
>>> Esports World Cup 2024 in Saudi Arabia
(Source: EWC)
Commitment to Vision 2030
Saudi Arabia's investment in esports is part of Vision 2030, an initiative led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal emphasized that hosting the Olympic Esports Games aligns with the Kingdom's vision to engage young people and promote sports.
Transformative Growth in e-Sports
Saudi Arabia has successfully hosted numerous esports events, attracting elite players and millions of fans. The Kingdom's infrastructure and gaming community make it an ideal host for the first Olympic Esports Games.
Princess Reema Bandar Al-Saud highlighted the transformative impact of Vision 2030 on sports in Saudi Arabia. The nation has seen increased participation, particularly among women, and significant growth in the number of sports federations.
Next Steps
The IOC will now focus on selecting a city and venue, determining the event timing, game titles, and qualification processes for the Olympic Esports Games.
A new dedicated structure within the IOC will be established to manage the Olympic Esports Games separately from the traditional Olympic Games.
The IOC will collaborate with International Federations and National Olympic Committees already involved in esports to integrate them into the Olympic Esports framework.
Editor's Comments
The launch of the Olympic Esports Games is a groundbreaking move that integrates digital sports into the Olympic tradition. Saudi Arabia's commitment and infrastructure make it a fitting host for this innovative event.
>>> Global eSports Market Report 
Follow Us on Facebook
