The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced that the inaugural Olympic Esports Week will be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2027. This groundbreaking event signifies a major step forward in the IOC's embrace of competitive gaming and its efforts to connect with a younger audience.

The IOC confirmed on Tuesday that the first Olympic Esports Week is set for Riyadh in two years, fulfilling a 12-year agreement signed with Saudi Arabia in 2024. This partnership underscores the Kingdom's growing influence in the world of esports and its commitment to hosting major international events.

The IOC has been exploring the potential of esports for several years, establishing a dedicated commission to investigate ways to engage with the gaming community.  Recognizing the aging demographic of its traditional viewership, the organization is actively seeking to cultivate relationships with younger generations and potential future Olympic fans.

In 2021, the IOC launched the Olympic Virtual Series, a pilot program in the esports arena.  This initiative paved the way for the subsequent agreement with Saudi Arabia to host the Olympic Esports Week.

IOC President Thomas Bach stated, "The path to the historic first Olympic Esports Week is now very clear. With the road to the Olympic Esports Week starting this year, this event is becoming a reality."  A six-member commission has been formed to determine which games will be included in the inaugural event.

Saudi Arabia has invested billions of dollars in various sporting ventures, including football, Formula 1 racing, boxing, and golf.  Hosting the Olympic Esports Week further solidifies the nation's position as a prominent player in the global sports landscape.