IOC Partners with Saudi Arabia for Groundbreaking Esports Olympics

By: Sam Watanuki | Published: Jul 24, 2024

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has unveiled a groundbreaking 12-year partnership with Saudi Arabia to host the first-ever Esports Olympics.

This landmark deal, announced during the Esports World Cup in Riyadh, signals a new era for both esports and the Olympic movement.

Esports Olympics: A New Frontier

Set to launch next year, the Olympic Esports Games will be held regularly, bringing a new dimension to the global sports scene.

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Gaming Setup For Competitive Esports

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The event aims to engage younger audiences and solidify esports’ place in the competitive sports landscape.

Vision 2030 and Esports

The partnership aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, driven by Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

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Vision 2030 seeks to diversify the economy away from oil dependency and modernize society, with sports and entertainment playing a crucial role.

Prince Abdulaziz's Vision

Saudi sports minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal emphasized the country’s growing influence in esports.

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“This is a natural next step for our young athletes, our country, and the global esports community,” he stated, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s transformation into a global esports hub.

IOC’s Strategic Move

The IOC’s decision to launch the video gaming Olympics is part of a broader strategy to attract and retain young fans.

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Silhouette of a hand holding a torch behind a flag for the Olympic Games

Source: Britannica

IOC President Thomas Bach noted Saudi Arabia’s unique expertise in esports, making it an ideal partner for this ambitious project.

Financial Model and Approval

The financial model for the Olympic Esports Games will be separate from the traditional Summer and Winter Games, the former of which kicks off this weekend.

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The partnership also awaits approval from the IOC membership meeting in Paris on July 23-24, a formality for projects endorsed by the Olympic leadership.

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Saudi Arabia’s Sports Portfolio

Saudi Arabia has rapidly expanded its sports portfolio, hosting high-profile events like heavyweight boxing title fights and the LIV Golf project.

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This latest deal with the IOC adds to the kingdom’s impressive array of international sports collaborations.

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Future Events in Saudi Arabia

Beyond esports, Saudi Arabia is set to host several major events, including the 2027 Asian Cup in men’s soccer, the 2029 Asian Winter Games at a new ski resort, and the 2034 Asian Games in Riyadh.

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Source: Olympics/YouTube

These events highlight the kingdom’s commitment to becoming a global sports destination.

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Criticism and Controversy

Despite the excitement, critics argue that Saudi Arabia’s push into international sports is a form of “sportswashing” to improve its human rights record.

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The Eiffel Tower is seen between the colorful Olympic rings

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This controversy continues to spark debate about the kingdom’s intentions and the ethics of such partnerships.

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Young Athletes and Global Impact

The Olympic Esports Games will provide a significant platform for young athletes worldwide, fostering talent and promoting healthy competition.

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This initiative reflects the evolving nature of sports and the growing recognition of esports as a legitimate competitive arena.

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Quotes from Key Figures

“We are very fortunate to be able to work with the Saudi NOC on the Olympic Esports Games,” said IOC President Thomas Bach.

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Prince Abdulaziz added, “Our country has become a global hub for professional esports. Hosting this event is the result of a rich past, an exciting present, and a promising future for the industry in the Kingdom.”

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Looking Ahead

As the inaugural Esports Olympics approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be a pioneering event in the world of sports.

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This partnership between the IOC and Saudi Arabia marks a significant milestone, paving the way for future innovations in competitive gaming.

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