In an interview with China Media Group in Beijing earlier this month, IOC President Kirsty Coventry announced that the International Olympic Committee is reassessing its plans to launch the inaugural Olympic esports events.
This pause comes after the IOC scrapped a deal to host the first games in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in 2027. Coventry explained that the committee wants to nail down clear objectives before moving forward.
"We're studying everything at the moment," Coventry said. "We really want to ensure when we have the first, because it's not an if, I believe we all want to see the esport games happen. But we want to be very clear on what we want it to do and what we want it to deliver."
The IOC's decision to step back underlines the challenge of blending traditional sport structures with the fast-paced world of competitive gaming. For business and tech enthusiasts, it highlights an opportunity to shape how a century-old institution adapts to emerging markets. Thought leaders and changemakers will be watching to see how the IOC aligns the values of fair play and global unity with a digital-native audience.
Sports and entertainment fans, from seasoned esports athletes to casual gamers, are eagerly awaiting details on formats, titles, and qualification paths. Meanwhile, young entrepreneurs and digital nomads eye potential partnerships, sponsorships, and new markets as the IOC defines its esports roadmap.
Coventry did not specify a new timeline for the esports debut, only emphasizing that the initiative remains on the table. The IOC's next update is expected once a comprehensive strategy is in place, potentially reshaping the future of the Olympic movement in the digital age.
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IOC undertakes reassessment of inaugural esports event launch
cgtn.com
