Following an initial proposal issued early this month, the Olympic Esports Games has now been confirmed.
It will see video games and simulations be officially recognised as an Olympic event for the first time with the first edition taking place in Saudi Arabia next year.
The 142nd IOC Session endorsed the plans, which include provisions for the event to be held for the next 12 years.
“This is truly a new era for the IOC,” said IOC President Thomas Bach
“With the confirmation by the IOC Session of the creation of the Olympic Esports Games, we are keeping up with the pace of the digital revolution.
“The esports community, represented in our Esports Commission, has enthusiastically engaged with this initiative.
“This is further proof of the attractivity of the Olympic brand and the values it stands for among young people.”
The exact line-up of games, or disciplines, at the inaugural event is yet to be confirmed – although sim racing is anticipated in some form.
While the new event sets a new yardstick for esports recognition, the IOC has experimented with virtual competition previously.
Recent examples include 2021’s Olympic Virtual Series event. The racing category used Gran Turismo Sport and was won by Italy’s Valerio Gallo. Then, last year, it held the Olympic Esports Series event in Singapore, the Gran Turismo 7 competition won by France’s Kylian Drumont.
Neither event received the formal ‘Games’ moniker, unlike the upcoming 2025 competition.
According to the committee, “International Federations already engaged in an e-version of their sport that is considered for inclusion in the Olympic Esports Games” will be the first partners called upon to assist with the event.
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