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The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has ended its partnership with Saudi Arabia, cancelling plans to host the Olympic Esports Games in the country. The decision comes only a year after both organizations signed a 12-year deal. It marks a clear shift in the IOC’s approach to competitive gaming. Both sides agreed to part ways after a strategic review of their esports direction.
IOC Shifts Focus to a New Esports Strategy
In its statement, the IOC said that “both parties are committed to pursuing their own esports ambitions on separate paths.” The committee will now develop a new plan for the Olympic Esports Games to align more closely with the Olympic Movement’s long-term goals.
The IOC explained that this new direction will help the Olympic Esports Games “better fit the Olympic Movement’s ambitions and spread opportunities more widely.” It also aims to host the first Olympic Esports Games as soon as possible, though no new host or date has been announced.
This move marks a reset in the IOC’s esports efforts. The organization still sees gaming as a bridge between traditional sports and younger audiences, helping the Olympic Movement reach new fans worldwide.
Saudi Arabia’s Esports Ambitions Continue
Meanwhile, the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) reaffirmed its commitment to expanding the global esports scene. The group said it will continue building on the success of the Esports World Cup, known as the world’s largest gaming and esports festival.
Saudi Arabia also plans to launch the Esports Nations Cup in November 2026, celebrating both national pride and international competition. “We remain committed to fostering an inclusive and sustainable international esports ecosystem,” the EWCF said. It also promised to keep collaborating with partners worldwide to support players, clubs, and fans.
In addition, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) remains central to its gaming ambitions. The fund holds stakes in Take-Two and Nintendo and recently agreed to acquire Electronic Arts. These moves support Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s vision of diversifying the Saudi economy beyond oil.
