Paris, July 24th 2024 - The International Olympic Committee (IOC) voted unanimously last night to hold the inaugural Olympic Esports Games in 2025. This decision, made on the eve of the Paris Olympic Games, marks a significant milestone in integrating esports into the global sports arena, reflecting the growth and popularity of competitive gaming worldwide.
"This is incredibly exciting for esports across the island of Ireland," said Steve Daly, President of Ireland Esports. "This proposal opens up amazing possibilities for athletes and aspiring esports players to compete on a global Olympic stage for their country and aspire to become Olympic gold medalists".
According to Thomas Bach, IOC President, "This is truly a new era for the IOC. With the confirmation by the IOC Session of the creation of the Olympic Esports Games, we are keeping up with the pace of the digital revolution."
Ireland Esports VP and Team Manager Michael Smyth said, "Competing at the Olympic level as part of the Irish national esports team could soon be within reach. Ireland is uniquely positioned to take advantage of this opportunity due to its strong history with esports and previous successes on the global stage. In 2022, Nollaig O'Donnell secured 4th at the European Games Esports Championships in e-football, and Ireland Esports has consistently showcased competitors at the Global Esports Games and World Esports Championships. The Esports and Gaming Federation of Ireland, alongside our partners, has established an ability to support the selection and training of esports athletes across various titles".
The first Olympic Esports Games will take place in Riyadh and feature a diverse lineup of games, attracting top-tier talent worldwide.
"The new Olympic Esports Games promise to provide the world with the opportunity to witness the pinnacle of global esports excellence, as players compete for Olympic glory and the chance to make history," according to Steve Daly.
For more information contact:info@irelandesports.ie or +353-21-2455420
