In a bold move signaling a fresh chapter for competitive gaming on the world stage, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced on October 30 that it has ended its cooperation with the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee and the Esports World Cup Foundation by mutual consent. This decision clears the way for the IOC to chart a new path for the much-anticipated Olympic Esports Games.
First unveiled at the 142nd IOC Session in July 2024, the inaugural Olympic Esports Games was forged through a year-long partnership with Saudi stakeholders. Initially slated to launch this year, the Games were already postponed to 2027 in February as the IOC fine-tuned its vision for a global digital sports festival.
Though the collaboration has ended, the IOC remains committed to bringing Olympic-quality esports events to fans around the world. Drawing on insights from its "Pause and Reflect" process, the Committee will develop a fresh partnership model designed to align the Esports Games with the broader goals of the Olympic Movement.
With a new roadmap in place, the IOC aims to deliver a sustainable, inclusive, and truly global Esports Games as soon as possible—one that resonates with young athletes, tech innovators, and international audiences alike. Keep an eye on myglobalnews.net as we track this evolving story at the intersection of sports, technology, and culture.
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IOC ends cooperation with Saudi Arabia on Olympic Esports Games
cgtn.com
