IOC proposes Olympic esports games, paving way for a new era in competitive gaming

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The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is proposing the inclusion of esports in the global sporting community through the ‘Olympic Esports Games.’ This proposal will be discussed at the 142nd IOC Session, coinciding with the Paris 2024 Olympics.

As reported by The Bridge, this decision follows the success of events such as the Olympic Esports Week in Singapore and the Olympic Virtual Series in 2021, which attracted online viewership and participation. These events show the growing interest in esports, particularly among younger audiences.

Esports’ has been steadily increasing, marked by its debut as an official medal sport at the Asian Games 2022 in Hangzhou. India’s participation in five different titles at these games reflects the country’s growing esports scene. The inclusion of esports in future multi-sport events like the Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games (AIMAG) 2025 and the Aichi Nagoya Asian Games 2026 may further increase its recognition.

“The Olympic Esports Games is an endorsement of esports by the most prestigious global sports body,” said Akshat Rathee, Co-founder of NODWIN Gaming. “I am excited and hopeful that this opportunity will allow traditional esports titles to be chosen by International or National Federations and will soon be included as a medal sport in the Olympics. This new-age sport will finally be embedded under the iconic rings of the Olympics.”

India’s growing involvement in esports is supported by strategic partnerships like that of NODWIN Gaming with the Global Esports Federation (GEF). This collaboration aims to increase esports’ reach globally, particularly in emerging markets. Rathee emphasized the potential for new partnerships with brands, publishers, and communities, aligning with the vision to expand esports’ reach.

Roby John, CEO and Co-Founder of SuperGaming, stated, “We are excited to see the IOC actively considering the inclusion of esports in the Olympics. This is a major step in recognizing esports as a legitimate performance sport. By integrating esports into the Olympics, the IOC acknowledges the dedication, skill, and sportsmanship of this growing field.”

The inclusion of esports as an Olympic event is expected to attract more viewers and establish esports alongside traditional sports, creating new opportunities in India’s expanding esports ecosystem. Tournaments like NODWIN Gaming’s BGMI Masters Series (BGMS), now broadcast on mainstream sports networks, highlight this growth. Additionally, endorsements from traditional sports figures and support from Prime Minister Narendra Modi have further legitimized esports in India.

Rajan Navani, CEO and Founder of JetSynthesys, noted the potential for India to stand out the global esports stage, given its large gaming community of over 450 million. He noted, “As JetSynthesys’ Gen Z gamers push esports into the mainstream, India can leverage its talent and host international tournaments, cementing its position as a formidable contender in the esports world.”

The IOC’s proposal marks a milestone for the esports industry, recognizing its significance and the efforts of those involved. The potential inclusion of esports in the Olympics is set to attract more viewers, establish esports alongside traditional sports, and create new partnerships and opportunities in India’s esports ecosystem.

With the proposal set to be discussed at the upcoming IOC Session, the future of esports looks promising for competitive gaming on a global scale.

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