Kirsty Coventry Puts Olympic Esports Plans on Hold

The new IOC President Kirsty Coventry has taken a more cautious approach toward competitive gaming, halting the organization’s dedicated esports initiatives.

Kirsty Coventry Halts Olympic Esports Push

Under the leadership of Kirsty Coventry, who assumed the role of IOC President in June 2025, the International Olympic Committee has placed the activities of its Esports Commission on hold. This decision signals a strategic shift toward prioritizing traditional Olympic sports.

The move comes after Coventry sent a letter to commission members earlier this year calling for a “more integrated approach” aligned with the overall Olympic Movement strategy.

Background on the IOC Esports Commission

The Esports Commission was established during former President Thomas Bach’s tenure to explore opportunities for integrating esports into the Olympics. Plans had included the Olympic Esports Games, which were postponed from 2025 to 2027 and later saw the partnership with Saudi Arabia for hosting in Riyadh terminated.

Kirsty Coventry Olympic Esports efforts now appear significantly slowed, with the commission’s work effectively paused as the IOC reviews its long-term priorities.

What This Means for the Future of Olympic Esports ?

This development creates uncertainty for esports’ Olympic ambitions. While the IOC has not issued a full cancellation, the current pause under Coventry’s leadership suggests a period of reflection and potential restructuring rather than rapid expansion.

What are your thoughts? Do you believe this pause will ultimately benefit or hinder esports’ path to the Olympics? Share your opinions in the comments below and stay tuned for any official updates from the IOC.