Get ready, gamers! The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has just confirmed that the first-ever Olympic Esports Games are set to debut in 2025 in Saudi Arabia. 🎉
This thrilling news was announced during the 142nd IOC Session in Paris, marking a groundbreaking step into the digital revolution for the Olympic movement. IOC President Thomas Bach declared, \"This is truly a new era for the IOC. With the confirmation of the Olympic Esports Games, we are keeping up with the pace of the digital revolution.\"
In a world where virtual and real-life sports are blending more than ever, Bach hinted that the physical demands of virtual cycling can be \"more or less\" the same as traditional cycling. Talk about leveling up! 🚴♂️🎮
Saudi Arabia, home to over 23.5 million gamers (many of whom are women! 🙌), is gearing up to host this epic event. Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal, the Minister of Sport and President of the Saudi Arabian Olympic and Paralympic Committee, couldn't contain his excitement: \"Our commitment to esports is simply a reflection of the world our young people live in. We now all have the chance to write new Olympic history together.\"
Princess Reema Bandar Al-Saud added, \"Hosting the Olympic Esports Games in 2025 is a natural progression in our journey to open up Saudi Arabia to the world and the world to Saudi Arabia.\"
Planning for the Olympic Esports Games is kicking off immediately, focusing on selecting the city, game titles, and the qualification process for participants. The IOC is even setting up a dedicated structure for the Games, distinct from the traditional Olympic model, to embrace the unique nature of esports.
Saudi Arabia has become a hub for esports, hosting numerous international tournaments with massive participation and global viewership over the past couple of years. It's clear that the gaming scene is leveling up in the Kingdom! 🎮🌟
With this bold move, the Olympics are pressing 'start' on a new chapter, bridging the gap between traditional sports and the ever-growing world of esports. Get your controllers ready, because 2025 is going to be a game-changer! 🕹️🚀
Reference(s):
IOC confirms 2025 debut for Olympic Esports Games in Saudi Arabia
cgtn.com
