Olympic committee back-peddles on eSports involvement

Reports emanating from the recent International Olympic Committee summit in Lausanne indicate what some observers say is back-peddling on whether eSports should be accepted as an Olympic competitive sport.

Whilst the committee acknowledged the growth and importance of eSports internationally, reservations were expressed regarding the violent nature of some eSports games and the  implications this may have for the spirit of the Olympics, which stresses peaceful sportsmanship and diversity, driven by values.

Due to these reservations the committee apparently felt that including eSports in the next (2024) Olympic Games may be premature, although in a statement it noted that it has agreed that competitive gaming entails physical activity which can be compared to that required in more traditional sports.

“For this reason, the use of the term sport with regard to esports/egames needs further dialogue and study. the committee opined.

The committee echoed the views expressed to news outlets in September by IOC president Thomas Bach, who said:

“We cannot have in the Olympic program a game which is promoting violence or discrimination. These, from our point of view, are contrary to the Olympic values and cannot therefore be accepted.”

The IOC appears to looking at compromise solutions to its concerns, noting that eSports based on real-world recognised sports may be the answer.

“Accelerated cooperation with regard to these kinds of eSports is encouraged by the Summit,” the statement read, urging sports federations to “explore the potential benefits and applications of the electronic and virtual versions of their sports.”

Summing up its position, the IOC concluded: “It was agreed that the Olympic Movement should continue to engage with this community, whilst at the same time acknowledging that uncertainties remain.”

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