The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced a partnership with the National Olympic Committee of Saudi Arabia to host the inaugural Olympic Esports Games in Riyadh in 2025. This landmark event marks a significant step in bridging the gap between esports and traditional sports on a global stage.
Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud, Chairman of the Saudi Esports Federation, shared his insights with CGTN Sports Scene’s Greg Laffradi on the potential of esports to unify people across diverse backgrounds. Speaking about the upcoming events, including the inaugural Esports World Cup, Prince Faisal emphasized the unique ability of esports to transcend traditional barriers.
“It’s an opportunity to learn. It’s an opportunity to do better,” Prince Faisal remarked. “At the center of everything we do are these players and this community. If we can keep them at the center, I think we’re doing the right thing, and we will do the right thing by this industry.”
The state-of-the-art venue in Riyadh is divided into four distinct zones, encompassing an impressive 34,000 square meters. Three zones are dedicated to competitions, while the fourth serves as a production hub, underscoring Saudi Arabia’s commitment to hosting world-class esports events.
Prince Faisal highlighted the inclusive nature of esports, noting its ability to level the playing field for participants worldwide. “Esports and gaming as a platform is unlike any other sport, in that your differentiator is your skill level alone and not physical prowess,” he explained. “It doesn’t matter if you are bigger or smaller, male or female. It doesn’t matter what your background is. What matters is your skill level in the game through an avatar.”
He added, “Your first introduction to someone is through an avatar in the game and therefore their skill level and nothing else. There is no other medium or avenue like that. I think that is something that is unique and really works to bring people together rather than separate.”
The announcement of the Olympic Esports Games in Saudi Arabia reflects the growing recognition of esports as a legitimate and influential component of the global sporting landscape. By hosting such a significant event, Saudi Arabia aims to position itself at the forefront of this rapidly evolving industry.
The 2025 Olympic Esports Games are expected to attract participants and spectators from around the world, offering a platform for gamers to showcase their talents on an international stage. With the country’s investment in cutting-edge facilities and infrastructure, the event promises to be a milestone in the evolution of esports.
As esports continues to gain momentum, initiatives like the Olympic Esports Games highlight the potential for digital platforms to unite people across cultures and communities. Prince Faisal’s vision underscores the power of technology and gaming to foster connections and break down barriers, heralding a new era of inclusivity in sports.
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Saudi esports chief calls esports unifying force across diversity
cgtn.com
