Following months of speculation and rumors about possible delays, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has officially confirmed that the inaugural Olympic Esports Games will take place in 2027.
IOC and EWCF Partnership for Esports Development
In a statement released earlier today, the IOC also announced a strategic partnership with the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF), the organizers behind the Esports World Cup. This collaboration aims to establish qualification pathways and align national esports ecosystems with broader global standards.
Additionally, the Olympic Esports Games will see the IOC partnering with the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee (SOPC), reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s growing role in the esports industry.
Why the Delay?
The Olympic Esports Games were initially scheduled for 2025 but were rumored to be postponed due to concerns regarding the format and a lack of clarity on key aspects from game publishers. A report from Sport Business indicated that discussions about the structure and financial model—expected to be different from traditional Olympic Games—contributed to the delay.
Despite these setbacks, IOC President Thomas Bach expressed confidence in the event’s future:
“There is now a very clear roadmap to the historic first-ever Olympic Esports Games. With the Road to the Olympic Esports Games starting this year, the Games are becoming a reality. This is further evidence of the strength of the partnership between the IOC and the SOPC in many areas.”
Image via IOC Media.
Saudi Arabia’s Growing Influence in Esports
Saudi Arabia has made significant investments in esports and gaming in recent years, solidifying its presence as a key player in the industry. The country is set to host the Esports World Cup in Riyadh and has heavily invested in gaming companies through its Public Investment Fund (PIF).
Most notably, Riot Games recently announced a three-year partnership with the EWCF, securing VALORANT, League of Legends, and Teamfight Tactics tournaments within the Esports World Cup framework.
However, despite its growing influence in esports, Saudi Arabia continues to face criticism over its human rights record, particularly regarding women’s rights and LGBTQ+ issues. The country’s involvement in esports has led to accusations of ‘esportswashing’—using gaming as a means to improve its global image while sidestepping human rights concerns.
Looking Ahead
With the Road to the Olympic Esports Games set to begin this year, all eyes will be on how the IOC, EWCF, and SOPC navigate the challenges ahead. The 2027 Olympic Esports Games mark a historic step in the evolution of esports, promising to elevate competitive gaming onto the global Olympic stage.
Riot Games Brings League of Legends, Valorant, and TFT to Esports World Cup 2025