ESports
Esports to debut as pilot event at Commonwealth Games 2022
All set to debut at the Birmingham Games 2022, Esports is gaining traction with plans to include it in the full programme by 2026.
Esports Commonwealth championships to be held as a part of the 2022 Commonwealth Games (Source: The Times)
The 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham will be a stepping stone towards the inclusion of Esports in the Games.
The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) is hoping that esports could become a part of the full-programme Games by 2026, as well. Exploring esports is also one of the events recommended in the CGF's strategic roadmap.
Although some traditionalists are opposed to the idea of including modern sport in the Games, many believe it is a good way of attracting younger audiences.
Talking to the BBC, CGF president Dames Louise Martin said, "Esports is continuing to grow dramatically in terms of popularity and participation, particularly amongst young people, and we are continuing to look at ways to explore how it can align with the Commonwealth Sports Movement."
CGF new chief executive Katie Sadlier also confirmed that she is "open-minded" about esports being included in Commonwealth Games. She was also certain about the Games going under a drastic change in the coming years.
The Commonwealth Esports Championships will run over two days at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham.
Esports is also set to make its Asian Games debut with eight medal games this year.
