World Rowing Statement on the Olympic Esports Games

World Rowing acknowledges today’s announcement by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) regarding the Olympic Esports Games and welcomes the IOC’s clear commitment to the continued development of this critical strategic initiative.

We are encouraged by the strong enthusiasm expressed across the Olympic Movement and the esports community, and we share the IOC’s vision to bring the inaugural Olympic Esports Games to life as soon as possible.

The rapid growth of Indoor/Connected Rowing in recent years reflects this shared ambition. From the World Rowing Virtual Series that just concluded, to the upcoming World Rowing Super60 event and Versa Challenge in Singapore this November, and the 2026 World Rowing Virtual Indoor Championships, presented by Concept2, Rowing’s various event formats continue to attract a diverse and expanding global community of athletes and fans.

World Rowing remains fully committed to contributing to the development of the Olympic Esports Games and to promoting the inclusivity and accessibility that define Indoor/Connected Rowing.

We look forward to engaging with the IOC as it develops a new approach and partnership model for the Olympic Esports Games, and to exploring how Indoor/Connected Rowing can play a meaningful role in shaping this exciting chapter for sport.