The IOC is seriously considering video games – or eSports as they’re now called – as an Olympic sport.
The International Olympic Committee and Global Association of International Sports Federations held discussions over the weekend in Switzerland on how eSports can be integrated into the world’s most prestigious sporting event, Engadget reported.
Competitive gaming has become a multi-billion-dollar phenomenon with tournaments filling out arenas and millions more logging on to livestream gaming events, The New York Post reported.
Top players are treated like pro athletes and can earn millions over their career from prizes and endorsements while their teams cash in on brand merchandising.
"In 10 years' time, it will be as big as NHL," leading gamer Olof Kajbjer told CNN.
eSports commentators Shaun Apollo Clark added that gaming was "not just the way they play the game but the way they live."
Included at the forum in Switzerland were international sporting professionals and administrators along with 150 members of the gaming community and, while no firm plans have been made, the groups agreed to form an eSports Liaison Group to keep the conversation alive.
“One thing in particular was clear from these fascinating discussions – we are united by passion for our sports and a shared love of competition,” said GAISF president and IOC member Patrick Baumann.
Jacob “Jake” Lyon, a professional eSports player for the Houston Outlaws in the Overwatch League, said there was opportunity for both industries to learn from one another.
“I think both communities were interested to learn from each other and I think it demonstrates the growing importance and following of esports around the world,” Lyon said.
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