The inaugural Olympic Esports Games will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2027, marking a historic moment for both esports and the Olympic movement. The journey to these Games begins this year with the “Road to the Games,” featuring the first Olympic esports competitions. This landmark event is a result of a partnership between the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee (SOPC).
Olympic Esports Games 2027 Takes Place In Riyadh
A key player in this collaboration is the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF), which will serve as the Founding Partner of the Olympic Esports Games. The EWCF’s expertise in game selection, tournament organization, and esports ecosystem engagement will be invaluable in shaping the Games. The IOC and EWCF will work together to establish qualification processes, ensure fair competition, and align national esports structures with global standards.
The EWCF, a non-profit organization, is dedicated to the growth of esports globally. Through the Esports World Cup, the foundation strives to elevate the industry by developing competitive frameworks, strengthening the esports ecosystem, and promoting integrity and sustainability.
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The partnership between the IOC and SOPC was a central topic of discussion between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, IOC President Thomas Bach, and SOPC President Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal. President Bach emphasized the clear roadmap to the first Olympic Esports Games, highlighting the significance of the “Road to the Games” starting this year. Prince Abdulaziz affirmed Saudi Arabia’s readiness to welcome the world and contribute to the realization of esports athletes’ dreams.
This collaboration coincides with significant growth in sports within Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom has hosted over 100 international sporting events, including esports, attracting millions of fans. Sports participation has tripled since 2015, reaching nearly 50% of the population, and the number of sports federations has also tripled.
A joint IOC-SOPC committee, chaired by IOC Member Ser Miang Ng and co-chaired by Prince Abdulaziz, will oversee the Games. This committee is currently tasked with determining the specific games that will be included in the inaugural Olympic Esports Games.
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