What will the first eSports Olympic Games look like in 2027? The event remains to be developed, and with this in mind, a forum was held under the auspices of the IOC in Lausanne last week. Sports and video game experts were able to gather to discuss the prospects for these Games. More than 120 figures representing International Federations, National Olympic Committees, as well as game publishers and developers were in attendance.
“Connecting to new communities”
It was clearly still a time of discovery for these two worlds, whose relationship remains relatively new. The IOC dedicated several presentations to the Games' digital ecosystem, the scope of their broadcasting, and the Worldwide Olympic Partners program. Roundtable discussions on the planning and development of the first eSports Olympic Games also helped to clear the ground.
Thomas Bach, as a father, was delighted to see these two families reunited. The Olympic Esports Games can be a game-changer for all of us: a new platform bringing together the best of both our worlds, supports the IOC president. For the Olympic Movement, this means connecting with new communities in an authentic, inclusive, and forward-looking way. For the esports ecosystem, it is a unique opportunity to connect with new communities, increase its influence, distinguish itself, and shape its future on a truly global stage. » Also discussed were how video games can facilitate access to traditional sports, the construction of inclusive and accessible pathways at all levels of competition, and opportunities to promote gender equality in eSports.
FIs increasingly involved
The forum highlighted the commonalities between the worlds of sport and video games, as well as the growing commitment of the Olympic Movement. eSports can contribute to the development of sport, just as sport can bring structure, values and inspiration to video games, says Ser Miang Ng, chairman of the eSports Olympics steering committee. In 2021, the IOC partnered with five International Federations to organize the Olympic Virtual Series. In 2023, the number of these federations has more than doubled with the Olympic Esports Series. Today, as we prepare for the first Olympic Esports Games, we are delighted that more than half of the 73 International Federations have expressed interest in developing esports strategies, and that many have submitted strong proposals for inclusion in the Games program. »
Rowing is one of the disciplines that is working on the subject, like archery, tennis, table tennis and modern pentathlon. We need more spaces where the Olympic Movement and video gaming and esports stakeholders can co-create, test ideas, and find common ground. This is how trust is built and progress is made., says Kirsty Coventry. With everything we've learned so far—from the Olympic Virtual Series to Olympic eSports Week to this forum—we've laid a solid foundation. Now we're ready to build something new, bold, and lasting together. » The precise program of the first eSports Olympic Games as well as the dates of the event are expected to be announced in the coming months.
