In July 2023, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) made a historic decision to launch the Olympic Esports Games, a major step towards connecting esports with traditional sports. Saudi Arabia has been selected to host the first-ever Olympic Esports Games in 2027. The IOC is partnering with the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee (SOPC) to make this vision a reality, and the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) has been designated as the Founding Partner of the event. This collaboration is focused on innovating esports, expanding opportunities for players around the world, and creating a lasting influence on the gaming industry.
Key Points of the Development
Lauch of Olympic Esports Games
- The IOC officially created the Olympic Esports Games in July 2023.
Host Country & Partners
- Saudi Arabia will host the inaugural Olympic Esports Games in 2027.
- The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) is named as the Founding Partner for the event.
Goals & Saudi’s Role
- The partnership aims to strengthen the relationship between esports and traditional sports, improve tournament structures, enhance competitive integrity, and establish qualification pathways for players.
- Saudi Arabia has played a pivotal role in the planning, and HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal, President of the SOPC, confirmed the timeline starting in 2025.
Committee Formation
- A joint committee between the IOC and SOPC has been established to steer the event’s development, co-chaired by IOC Member Ser Miang Ng and HRH Prince Abdulaziz.
Saudi’s Growth in Sports
- Saudi Arabia has seen an explosion in sports participation and has hosted over 100 international events since 2015, including esports and major traditional sports events like football, motorsports, and tennis.
