The IOC Moves Toward an Olympic eSports Era
The International Olympic Committee is signaling a notable shift in digital competition with a proposal for the Olympic e-Sports Games. The announcement, shared through the IOC’s official channels, marks a new chapter that blends competitive gaming and digital culture under the Olympic umbrella.
In a recent briefing, the IOC Executive Board outlined its plan to establish the Olympic eSports Games. The proposal awaits formal approval at the upcoming IOC session in Paris, with the committee chair noting that the final decision will follow standard governance procedures and the Paris vote.
As Paris approaches, organizers and competitors watch closely for a definitive ruling on whether the event will sit within the Olympic framework. Current efforts concentrate on selecting the ideal host city and the organizing body, with further statements anticipated only after all necessary procedures and agreements are completed.
The IOC’s relationship with electronic gaming traces back to 2018, when it first engaged with eSports through the Esports Forum in Lausanne. That gathering opened dialogue among game developers, athletes, national Olympic committees, and other industry players. In subsequent years, the collaboration evolved into the IOC Esports Commission, a body charged with shaping policy, competition formats, and sport-specific governance for digital competition within the Olympic system.
Earlier this year, during the 141st IOC Session in Mumbai, IOC President Thomas Bach reaffirmed the organization’s interest in exploring a formal concept for the Olympic eSports Games. The aim is to craft a framework that supports Olympic values while expanding participation across diverse regions and demographics. The process includes decisions about game selection, athlete eligibility, competition formats, and the broader cultural considerations of integrating esports into Olympic ideals.
While development remains a priority, the IOC also highlights the importance of inclusive and responsible governance. Ongoing discussions address standards for fair play, age verification, and the ethical aspects of digital competition. The organization emphasizes that any decision will balance innovation with the integrity and universality that define the Olympic Movement, ensuring the initiative benefits athletes, promotes healthy competition, and engages new audiences in a way that aligns with Olympic principles. [IOCMaterials]