IOC Inaugurates Olympic Esports Games, First Event in 2025

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has made a groundbreaking move by establishing the Olympic Esports Games, with the first edition scheduled for 2025. Unveiled at the 142nd IOC Session in Paris, this decision marks a significant leap into the digital age, aligning with the evolving interests of a younger audience.

IOC President Thomas Bach celebrated this initiative as a new era for the Olympics, highlighting the enthusiastic support from the global esports community. The Games will be organized in collaboration with the National Olympic Committee (NOC) of Saudi Arabia for the next 12 years, leveraging the Kingdom’s extensive experience and commitment to esports.

The IOC’s engagement with esports began in 2018, culminating in the successful Olympic Esports Week in Singapore in 2023. This event led to the formation of the IOC Esports Commission, which developed a project that respects Olympic values, promotes gender equality, and engages with youth.

HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Sport, praised the initiative, citing the transformative Vision 2030 introduced by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This vision has positioned Saudi Arabia as a leader in the esports industry, with over 23.5 million gamers. The Kingdom’s commitment to sports reflects the dynamic interests of its young population.

HRH Princess Reema Bandar Al-Saud highlighted the societal changes driven by Vision 2030, which have empowered women and youth, leading to increased participation in sports, including esports. Saudi Arabia’s hosting of numerous international esports tournaments has reinforced its reputation as a global esports hub.

The IOC will establish a dedicated structure for organizing the Olympic Esports Games, distinct from the traditional Olympics, ensuring effective management and financing. This initiative promises to foster collaboration with international federations and national Olympic committees, heralding a dynamic future for the Olympic Esports Games and the broader Olympic movement.