Saudi Esports Control: A Threat to Women’s Inclusion?

Look Sports Media – A bombshell report by The Esports Advocate (TEA) has ignited fresh concerns about Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in esports, alleging that Saudi officials resisted the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) push for female leadership roles within the now-cancelled Olympic Esports Games. This revelation casts a shadow over Saudi Arabia’s involvement in the industry, particularly given ongoing accusations of sportswashing to mask human rights abuses, especially those targeting women.

The TEA report details friction between the IOC and Saudi representatives, including government officials and members of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee (SOPC). A key point of contention was the Saudi contingent’s reluctance to embrace gender equality in leadership positions. This stance clashes with the IOC’s commitment to inclusivity and raises questions about the future of women in esports under Saudi Arabian control.

Despite recent social reforms in Saudi Arabia, organizations like Amnesty International highlight persistent discrimination against women in law and practice, affecting areas like marriage, divorce, and inheritance. Human Rights Watch has also documented intensified crackdowns on dissidents and human rights activists, with severe consequences for those advocating for women’s rights.

The IOC’s leadership, currently helmed by Kirsty Coventry, reportedly clashed with Saudi officials over the structure of esports governance. TEA claims that Coventry reversed a previous agreement that would have allowed Saudi Arabia to create its own esports federation, bypassing existing international bodies like the International Esports Federation (IESF) and the Global Esports Federation (GEF). Coventry allegedly opposed the proposal, fearing it would lack democratic processes and remain perpetually under Saudi government control. The report also suggests Saudi officials resisted adhering to rules regarding which nations could participate in esports events.

This news arrives amidst a broader conversation about sexism within esports. Recent incidents, such as the controversy surrounding comments made by League of Legends player Bwipo about women competing during their menstrual cycles, underscore the ongoing challenges faced by women in the industry. Prominent figures like Eefje "Sjokz" Depoortere have also shared their experiences of sexism, highlighting the need for greater inclusivity and respect.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, aimed at diversifying the kingdom’s economy beyond oil, has fueled significant investments in esports and gaming. Through its Public Investment Fund (PIF), Saudi Arabia has acquired major entities like ESL FACEIT Group and established the Esports World Cup Foundation. These moves, combined with acquisitions like EA and a reluctance to collaborate with existing federations, indicate a desire for greater control over the esports landscape.

The upcoming Esports Nations Cup, controlled by the Saudi-backed Esports World Cup Foundation, raises concerns that Saudi Arabia may create a competition where it has absolute control and is not compelled to meaningfully include women. The question remains: can esports afford to continue down a path that potentially marginalizes women and undermines the principles of equality and inclusivity? The industry’s response to these allegations will be crucial in shaping the future of women in esports.