Page 31 - 2018 Holiday FAQ English

Esports
Will Esports be added to the Olympic programme?
It is premature at this stage to discuss a pathway towards Esports being included in the Olympic programme. However, the Summit agreed that the Olympic Movement should not ignore its growth, particularly because of its popularity among young generations around the world. It was also agreed that competitive gaming entails physical activity, which can be compared to that required in more traditional sports. At the Esports Forum last summer, the IOC and the GAISF have established an Esports Liaison Group to continue communication and engagement between the Olympic Movement and Esports and gaming stakeholders in order to identify areas of potential collaboration.
For a sport to be included in the Olympic Games it must first apply to become a “Recognised Sport” for the IOC. In order to do so, the International Federation representing the sport must be in conformity with the Olympic Charter and implement the World Anti-Doping Code, which is a necessary step before requesting inclusion in the Olympic programme. The Summit, however, encourages the IFs to explore the potential benefits and applications of the electronic and virtual versions of their sports. Moreover, accelerated cooperation with regards to Esports simulation games is also encouraged.
Watch Esport video here