Entering a new 12 year partnership, the International Olympic Commitee (IOC) and the National Olympic Comittee (NOC) of Saudi Arabia have joined forces to host the inaugural Olympic Esports Games in 2025. With more than 23 million (67%) in the Kingdom considering themselves gamers, and an increasing amount of professional esports players choosing to pursue the career full-time, this groundbreaking event fits well in the region.
IOC President Thomas Bach expressed excitement over this collaboration, emphasising Saudi Arabia’s extensive experience in esports. The event promotes Olympic values, gender equality, and youth engagement. HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal, the Saudi Minister of Sport, highlighted the country’s enthusiasm and readiness to host this historic event, promising a celebration that aligns with Olympic principles.
“As a ‘first’ ever Esports Olympic Games, obviously there is still much to consider and plan with the IOC, but we are committed to hosting a special event that respects and celebrates the Olympic values while boldly seizing the momentum to drive esports forward with the international platform the sport and its athletes deserve. The world will have an open invitation to join us in 2025 and celebrate this moment together.“
“We are a youthful nation, with over 23 million gamers, embracing the future with new thinking and partnerships. Supported by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, our Kingdom 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. This is a natural next step for our young athletes, our country and the global esports community.”
Since 2018, the Kingdom has hosted over 100 international sports events, including a $2.3 billion investment into football. This strategic push not only boosts tourism but also enhances the nation’s global sports profile. Attracting over 2.6 million sports fans across other sports including tennis, golf, motorsports, and equestrian events.
Saudi Arabia’s investment in sports has also significantly impacted local participation, with sports engagement levels tripling since 2015 to almost half of Saudi’s population. The number of sports federations has also tripled, reflecting a national commitment to fostering both grassroots and elite sports. Women’s sports have also seen remarkable growth, supported by reforms ensuring equal pay and representation.
IOC Member, member of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Arabian Olympic and Paralympic Committee and President of the Women’s Committee, Princess Reema Bandar Al-Saud, said: “Witnessing the growing trends of female participation in esports is very exciting. I had the honour of working towards women’s empowerment in sport and in society as whole under Vision 2030, and the leadership of HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and I’ve witnessed firsthand the tremendous positive impact of sport for women and girls. I look forward to the Olympic Esports Games as an opportunity for more female participation from across the globe in a safe and inclusive space.”
