The inaugural Olympic Esports Games, originally scheduled for 2025, have been postponed to 2027 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) made the announcement on Tuesday, citing the need for thorough preparations and collaboration with key partners to ensure the event's success.
During the 142nd IOC Session last July, the Executive Board unanimously decided to establish the Olympic Esports Games, marking a significant step in integrating esports into the traditional Olympic framework.
The IOC is partnering with the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committees to organize the event, with the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) also joining as a founding partner. The EWCF will contribute its expertise in game selection and tournament structures, facilitating a bridge between the emerging esports industry and conventional sports.
To maintain the integrity and sustainability of the esports arena, the IOC and EWCF plan to collaborate closely with key stakeholders to develop qualification pathways aligned with global standards.
\"There is now a very clear roadmap to the historic first-ever Olympic Esports Games. With the road to the Olympic Esports Games starting this year, the Games are becoming a reality,\" stated IOC President Thomas Bach.
A joint committee, chaired by IOC member Ser Miang Ng and co-chaired by Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal, has been established to oversee preparations and define the competitions for the inaugural Olympic Esports Games.
Saudi Arabia is enthusiastic about hosting this global event, aiming to welcome participants and fans from around the world and adding esports to its roster of popular events, which currently includes football, motorsports, tennis, equestrian, and golf.
Reference(s):
Inaugural Olympic Esports Games in Saudi Arabia postponed to 2027
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