LAUSANNE, Switzerland (AP) — The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has reached a historic agreement with Saudi Arabia to host the Esports Olympic Games for a 12-year period, with the inaugural event set to launch in 2025.
This groundbreaking deal marks a significant milestone in the world of esports, as it paves the way for the integration of competitive gaming into the prestigious Olympic Games platform. Esports, which involves multiplayer video game competitions, has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, attracting a global audience of millions.
The decision to include esports in the Olympic Games aligns with the IOC's efforts to embrace new and innovative forms of sports and entertainment. By partnering with Saudi Arabia, a country known for its growing interest in esports, the IOC aims to further expand the reach and appeal of the Olympic Games to a younger and more tech-savvy audience.
The Esports Olympic Games will provide a platform for top gamers from around the world to showcase their skills and compete for coveted medals. The event is expected to feature a diverse range of esports titles, catering to a wide variety of gaming preferences and styles.
With the 12-year agreement in place, both the IOC and Saudi Arabia are committed to ensuring the success and sustainability of the Esports Olympic Games. This long-term partnership underscores the growing significance of esports in the global sports landscape and highlights the potential for further collaboration between traditional sports organizations and the esports industry.
As preparations for the inaugural Esports Olympic Games in 2025 get underway, the world eagerly anticipates the exciting fusion of esports and the Olympic spirit on the international stage.