Full Breakdown
IOC and Saudi Arabia End Esports Olympics Partnership
10/30/2025, 9:05:23 PM
Cancellation of the Partnership
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the Saudi Arabian government have mutually agreed to terminate their 12-year deal to host the Olympic Esports Games in Riyadh. This decision, announced on October 30, 2025, marks a significant setback for Saudi Arabia's ambitions to become a global hub for esports as part of its Vision 2030 initiative. The inaugural Esports Olympics, initially scheduled for 2025, had already been postponed to 2027.
Background and Context
The partnership was established in July 2024 under the leadership of former IOC President Thomas Bach, who was a proponent of integrating esports into the Olympic framework. However, the new IOC President, Kirsty Coventry, initiated a "pause and reflect" period to reassess the collaboration shortly after taking office. The IOC's statement emphasized that both parties would pursue their esports ambitions independently moving forward.
Key Figures and Groups
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) of Saudi Arabia has been a driving force behind the kingdom's investment in esports, aiming to diversify the economy away from oil. The Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, led by Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal, was instrumental in the initial agreement. The Esports World Cup Foundation, which organized the Esports World Cup in Riyadh, also played a crucial role in the partnership.
Reasons for the Split
Sources indicate that friction arose between the IOC and Saudi officials regarding key aspects of the IOC charter, particularly the involvement of international esports federations. The Saudis expressed reluctance to collaborate with the financially struggling International Esports Federation (IESF) and the Global Esports Federation (GEF). Additionally, disagreements over governance and the inclusion of women in leadership roles contributed to the breakdown of negotiations.
Official Statements & Responses
The IOC stated, "This approach will be a chance to better fit the Olympic Esports Games to the long-term ambitions of the Olympic movement." Meanwhile, the Saudi Esports World Cup Foundation remains committed to its initiatives, including the upcoming Esports Nations Cup set to debut in 2026.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Saudi Arabia's sports investments argue that the kingdom uses such initiatives as a means of "sportswashing" its human rights record. Women's rights groups and LGBTQ advocates have voiced concerns over the implications of Saudi investments in global sports, alleging that these efforts distract from ongoing human rights violations.
What's Next for Esports?
The IOC has not provided a new timeline for the Olympic Esports Games but is exploring alternative partnerships and models. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia continues to develop its esports infrastructure, hosting major tournaments and investing in local gaming initiatives. The cancellation of the Olympic Esports Games deal represents a pivotal moment for both the IOC and Saudi Arabia as they navigate the future of competitive gaming on the world stage.
