IOC To Host Inaugural Esports Games In Saudi Arabia
IOC and Saudi Arabia's partnership to last 12 years as per current agreement
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) to partner with the National Olympic Committee of Saudi Arabia to host the inaugural Olympic Esports Games in Saudi Arabia in 2025.
The IOC followed up on their previous announcement that the IOC Executive Board had laid the groundwork for a standalone multi-national event, the Olympic Esports Games, by confirming that a proposal will be floored in the upcoming IOC session on the eve of the Olympic Games Paris 2024.
The IOC will reveal the venue, specific timings, titles to include and the qualification process in due course.
“This decision marks a significant milestone in the global recognition and growth of esports, providing a prestigious platform for athletes from around the world to showcase their skills on an unparalleled stage,” said Added Lokesh Suji, the Director of the ESFI, and the Vice President of the Asian Esports Federation (AESF). “Finally, esports at the Olympics—this is the news we have all been waiting for. We thank the leadership and the entire IOC for transforming our dreams into reality,” added Suji.
The partnership between the IOC and Saudi Arabia NOC will last 12 years as per their current agreement, which includes hosting the Olympic Esports Games regularly. The event will become the latest chapter under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, through which the country is targeting economic, social, and cultural diversification.
