A New Era for Esports: The Birth of the Olympic Esports Games

Breaking the Mold: IOC’s Historic Decision to Launch the Olympic Esports Games

In a groundbreaking move, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) made history in July 2023 by announcing the creation of the Olympic Esports Games during its 142nd IOC Session. This revolutionary decision marked a significant step forward in bridging the gap between traditional sports and the rapidly growing world of esports. To bring this vision to life, the IOC has partnered with the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee (SOPC), signaling a new chapter in the evolution of global sports. The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) has been named the Founding Partner of the Olympic Esports Games, bringing its expertise in game selection, tournament structures, and ecosystem engagement to ensure the success of this initiative. Together, the IOC and EWCF aim to create a lasting impact by expanding opportunities for esports athletes and teams to represent their countries on the world stage.

A Partnership for Innovation: IOC and EWCF Join Forces

The collaboration between the IOC and the EWCF is built on a shared commitment to innovation and growth. As the Founding Partner of the Olympic Esports Games, the EWCF will leverage its deep understanding of the esports ecosystem to drive the development of the Games. This includes selecting appropriate games, designing competitive tournament structures, and fostering engagement within the esports community. The partnership also focuses on establishing qualification pathways, ensuring competitive integrity, and aligning national esports ecosystems with global standards. By working closely with key stakeholders, the IOC and EWCF are laying the groundwork for a sustainable and inclusive future for esports. The EWCF, a non-profit organization, has already made significant strides in promoting the growth of esports worldwide through its work on the Esports World Cup. Its expertise will be instrumental in shaping the Olympic Esports Games into a memorable and impactful event.

Saudi Arabia’s Role in Shaping the Future of Esports

The IOC’s partnership with the SOPC underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in the global sports landscape. The collaboration was discussed during a high-profile meeting in Riyadh between Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister, HRH Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, IOC President Thomas Bach, and the President of the SOPC and Minister of Sports, HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal. This meeting highlighted the shared vision of leveraging the Olympic Esports Games to drive progress and unity in the sports world. Saudi Arabia has emerged as a hub for international sports events, hosting over 100 events across various disciplines, including esports, football, motorsports, tennis, equestrian sports, and golf. These events have attracted more than three million sports fans, showcasing the Kingdom’s dedication to fostering a vibrant sports culture.

A Clear Roadmap to the First-Ever Olympic Esports Games

The journey to the first-ever Olympic Esports Games is now well underway, with a clear roadmap and timeline in place. IOC President Thomas Bach expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating that the Games are now becoming a reality. The "Road to the Olympic Esports Games" will kick off in 2025, marking the start of a new era for esports athletes. HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal emphasized the importance of this milestone, noting that the partnership between the IOC and the SOPC has created a sense of unity and clarity. The focus is now on delivering a world-class event that will help realize the dreams of esports athletes worldwide. Saudi Arabia is eager to welcome the world and play a key role in shaping the future of esports.

A Joint Committee to Steer the Games Forward

To ensure the success of the Olympic Esports Games, a joint committee has been established by the IOC and the SOPC. Chaired by IOC Member Ser Miang Ng and co-chaired by HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal, the committee consists of six members, with three representatives from each partner. The committee is currently working on defining the games that will feature in the first edition of the Olympic Esports Games. This process involves careful consideration of which esports titles will be included, ensuring that the selection aligns with the values of the Olympic movement and appeals to a broad audience. The committee’s work is crucial in setting the stage for a successful and engaging inaugural event.

The Future of Sports: Embracing Growth and Opportunity

The launch of the Olympic Esports Games is part of a broader cultural shift in the sports industry, as traditional sports and esports continue to converge. This initiative reflects the IOC’s commitment to staying relevant in a rapidly changing world and engaging with new audiences. For Saudi Arabia, the partnership with the IOC is an opportunity to further solidify its position as a global sports hub. The Kingdom has seen significant growth in sports participation levels, with almost 50% of the population now actively engaged in sports. This growth is complemented by the expansion of sports federations, which have tripled in number since 2015. As the Olympic Esports Games approach, the world can expect a celebration of unity, innovation, and competition that will inspire future generations. The IOC’s foray into esports is not just about hosting a new event—it’s about embracing the future and creating opportunities for athletes and fans alike.