The first Olympic Esports Games could take place in 2025

The International Olympic Committee has announced a partnership with the Saudi Arabian National Olympic Committee to host the inaugural 2025 Cybersport Olympics in Saudi Arabia. The move follows the IOC's recent announcement that the IOC Executive Board has approved the hosting of a cybersport Olympic Games. The proposal will be brought to the IOC session, which will be held ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

We are happy to work with the Saudi NOC. Their expertise in cybersport will significantly benefit the Olympic Cyber Games

said IOC President Thomas Bach.

We are delighted to welcome a new era of international sport. Hosting this event respects and celebrates Olympic values while moving cybersport forward

said Saudi Arabia's Minister of Sports, H.I. Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal

The partnership reflects Saudi Arabia's commitment to sport as part of its Vision 2030 program to transform the country's social and economic landscape. Since 2018, the Kingdom has hosted more than 100 international events, attracting millions of sports fans.

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Women's sports in Saudi Arabia has grown significantly, with nearly half of the Kingdom's 23 million gamers being female. There are now more than 330,000 registered female athletes and around 40 women's national teams competing internationally.

Watching the growing trends of female participation in cyber sports is very exciting. I look forward to the Olympic Cybersport Games as an opportunity for more women's participation around the world

said IOC Member, Princess Rima bint Bandar Al Saoud

The IOC will now focus on selecting the city and venue for the 2025 event, determining the game disciplines and establishing the qualification process. They are keen to ensure that the event respects Olympic values and attracts a young audience.

The Olympic Cybersport Games will have a separate organizational and financial structure from the traditional Olympic Games to accommodate its unique nature. The IOC is emphasizing the already existing international federations involved in cybersports to include gaming disciplines. National Olympic Committees already involved in cybersport will also play a significant role.

SOURCE - olympics.com