Press Release: Virtual Gliding Awaits Olympic Esports Games Decision with Optimism
IOC/Greg Martin - Thomas Bach & HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal
19/02/2025 – In late October 2024, a tripartite bid was submitted by the FAI, Condor Team, and SkyRace Media Ltd to include Virtual Gliding in the Olympic movement. This collaborative effort aims to bring the thrill and inclusivity of Virtual Gliding to the global stage of the Olympic Esports Games (OEG).
While the OEG has been delayed until 2027 (instead of 2025), we remain optimistic and enthusiastic about this inaugural event. The delay provides us with a unique opportunity to further strengthen our sport, enhance our infrastructure, and build a robust community. We acknowledge that this delay will allow for a better world premiere of the OEG, ultimately creating a more impactful and memorable event.
It is important to note that although the OEG has been delayed to 2027, the qualifiers and the decision-making process for Virtual Gliding's inclusion in the program have not been postponed. We expect ongoing discussions between the IOC and the FAI to continue, and we are eager to contribute to these conversations to ensure the best possible outcome for our sport. We anticipate a decision regarding Virtual Gliding's inclusion in the program to be made in the upcoming weeks or months.
The period from 2025 to 2027 will help us further consolidate our sport and the program around it, creating a repetitive schedule for the upcoming years. Here's what to expect:
2025 - 2027:
- Annual Nationals: We will establish with NACs a yearly schedule for National Championships, fostering local engagement and talent development.
- Biennial Continentals and World Championships: Continentals and World Championships will be held every two to four years, providing a structured pathway for competitors to progress and showcase their skills on a global stage.
- Virtual SGP Focus: We will maintain a specific focus on the Virtual SGP, ensuring it remains a highlight of our competitive calendar. This will include dedicated events and promotions to keep the community engaged and excited.
- Community Engagement: We will continue to engage with our community, fostering enthusiasm and support for the sport. Our promotional campaigns will highlight Virtual Gliding's independent growth and its potential Olympic status.
Regarding the 1st FAI Virtual WGC - World Final 2024, we are still working on a solution to close this inaugural world event, following the cancellation of the Interglide, which was supposed to host our first on-stage Final event. The new schedule will soon be released and the final is expected to take place online with the latest simulator: Condor 3.
Post-2027:
- Legacy and Sustainability: Regardless of the Olympic outcome, we will use the momentum built during this period to establish a strong legacy for Virtual Gliding. This includes investing in long-term development programs, educational initiatives, and community infrastructure to sustain the sport's growth.
For more information on our journey and previous updates, please visit:
- FAI Virtual Gliding Team Celebrates New Era of Olympic Esports Games
- Inaugural Olympic Esports Games to be Held in Riyadh in 2027
We are excited about the future of Virtual Gliding and look forward to sharing more updates with you soon!
Stay connected and follow our next FAI Community Event on Friday (21/02/2025) at 19h00 UTC.
