Photocredit: AFP

The highly anticipated Olympic Esports Games will officially launch in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2027, marking a two-year delay from the original 2025 target. The announcement, made by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Tuesday, confirms that the event will be hosted in partnership with the kingdom’s Esports World Cup Foundation.

A New Era for Competitive Gaming

Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in positioning itself as a global hub for esports, following the success of its first Esports World Cup last July and August. The event featured a record-breaking prize pool and attracted top competitors in popular titles such as Call of Duty, Fortnite, and Street Fighter.

While details regarding the official game lineup for the Esports Olympics remain under discussion, the IOC has emphasized the importance of aligning selections with Olympic values. This has led to uncertainty over whether shooter games, a dominant force in the esports world, will be included in the program.

Governance and Game Selection Process

The Esports Olympics Committee, a six-person panel co-chaired by IOC veteran Ser Miang Ng and Saudi sports minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal, has been tasked with determining the event’s structure and games selection. Their decisions will shape the first-ever Olympic esports competition, ensuring it meets both competitive and ethical standards.

This confirmation comes just two days after Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman hosted a high-profile Olympic delegation in Riyadh, including IOC president Thomas Bach, who is set to step down from his role in June.

Saudi Arabia’s Growing Influence in Global Sports

The 12-year partnership between the IOC and Saudi Arabia underscores the kingdom’s expanding role in global sports. Riyadh has already secured several high-profile sporting events, including the 2034 FIFA World Cup, which was confirmed in December. The decision to host the Olympic Esports Games every two years further cements Saudi Arabia’s ambitions to become a powerhouse in both traditional and digital sports.

What’s Next for the Esports Olympics?

While the first Esports Olympics was originally slated for 2025, organizers believe the additional two years will allow for a more structured and well-prepared competition. Qualifying events for national teams are expected to begin later this year, with players from around the world vying for a spot in this historic tournament.

As esports continues to gain mainstream recognition, the Esports Olympics is set to redefine the global gaming landscape, providing professional players with an unprecedented platform to showcase their skills on the Olympic stage.