The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has partnered with the National Olympic Committee (NOC) of Saudi Arabia to host the first-ever Olympic Esports Games.
Over the course of a 12-year partnership, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will host the first Olympic Esports Games in 2025. Details regarding the host city, venue, timing, included titles, and qualification process will be decided following an IOC Session.
The IOC has highlighted that it will prioritise partnering with International Federations already engaged in esports versions of their sports, as well as with NOCs that have incorporated esports into their programmes.
Furthermore, the IOC plans to set up a specialised structure within its organisation, separate from the traditional framework used for the Olympic Games. This new structure will cater specifically to the unique requirements of the Olympic Esports Games, outlining a distinct approach to both financing and the organisation of these games.
Thomas Bach, President of the IOC, commented: “We are very fortunate to be able to work with the Saudi NOC on the Olympic Esports Games, because it has great – if not unique – expertise in the field of esports with all its stakeholders. The Olympic Esports Games will greatly benefit from this experience.
“By partnering with the Saudi NOC we have also ensured that the Olympic values are respected, in particular, with regard to the game titles on the programme, the promotion of gender equality and engagement with the young audience, which is embracing esports.”
Currently, the country is hosting the inaugural Esports World Cup (3 July-25 August), which has generated partnerships with some of the biggest brands across the world. Earlier this month, DAZN announced it would be showing coverage of the event.
HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal, Minister of Sport and President of the Saudi Arabian Olympic and Paralympic Committee, said: “Saudi Arabia is hugely excited by the prospect of partnering with the IOC and helping to welcome a completely new era for international sport.
“We believe that to take part in the Olympic Games is one of the greatest honours any athlete can achieve. We are proud to support the writing of a new chapter in Olympic history that has the potential to inspire new dreams and new ambitions for literally millions of athletes around the world.
“As a ‘first’ ever Esports Olympic Games, obviously there is still much to consider and plan with the IOC, but we are committed to hosting a special event that respects and celebrates the Olympic values while boldly seizing the momentum to drive esports forward with the international platform the sport and its athletes deserve. The world will have an open invitation to join us in 2025 and celebrate this moment together.“
“We are a youthful nation, with over 23 million gamers, embracing the future with new thinking and partnerships. Supported by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, our Kingdom has become a global hub for professional esports.
“Hosting this event is the result of a rich past, an exciting present and a promising future for the industry in the Kingdom. This is a natural next step for our young athletes, our country and the global esports community.”