IOC Suddenly Reverses Decision to Host Olympic Esports Games in Saudi Arabia

The decision was made one year after a 12-year agreement was signed with the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced it is ending its collaboration with Saudi Arabia on hosting the Olympic Esports Games.

In its official release, the IOC stated that the parties “have agreed to conclude their cooperation on the Olympic Esports Games”. Both organizations say they remain committed to the growth of esports, but will now pursue “different paths”.

The inaugural Olympic Esports Games had been planned for Riyadh in 2027 (after being postponed from 2025 due to logistical issues). The partnership was revealed ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympics, but prompted concern because Saudi events included shooter titles like Call of Duty and Counter-Strike, which critics argue conflict with Olympic values that emphasize non-violence.

Source: iXBT.games