IOC discusses Olympic Esports Games at Publisher and Developer Forum

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) hosted the Olympic Esports Games Publishers and Developers Forum to foster collaboration ahead of the first Olympic Esports Games in 2027.

IOC continues to lay the foundation for Olympic Esports Games at Publishers and Developers Forum

The meeting, which took place in Lausanne, Switzerland, saw more than 120 guests from International Sports Federations, Continental Associations of National Olympic Committees (NOCs) as well as game publishers and developers. The parties reunited to contribute to the ongoing discussions regarding the planning and development of the first Olympic Esports Games.

“The Olympic Esports Games can be a game-changer for all of us: a new platform bringing together the best of both of our two worlds. For the Olympic Movement, this means connecting with new communities in ways that are authentic, inclusive, and future-focused. For the esports ecosystem, it is a unique opportunity to connect with communities that are new for you, to scale up, to stand out and to shape your future on a truly global stage,” commented IOC President Thomas Bach.

Exploring the themes behind the organisation of the first Olympic Esports Games

Several panel sessions took place, exploring how game publishers, platforms, and sports bodies are shaping this competitive landscape, and working out how to achieve “balanced collaboration”. Several esports company representatives, including Danny Tang, Co-Founder and CEO of Hero Esports, who took part in a panel discussion, and Ajay Jilka, Head of Esports for MOONTON’s Mobile Legends.

Initially set to take place later this year in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the first Olympic Esports Games were postponed to 2027 due to planning issues and the need to create a suitable organizational model for the event, which is different from the traditional Olympic Games.

“With everything we have learned so far — from the Olympic Virtual Series to Olympic Esports Week, to this Forum — we have laid a solid foundation. Now we are ready to build something new, something bold and lasting, together. So, let us bring the full creativity and passion of both communities together to make the Olympic Esports Games a resounding success. And let us show what is possible when we build something bold — together,” said IOC President-elect Kirsty Coventry.