The Commonwealth Games Federation and Global Esports Federation (GEF) have agreed to an exploratory partnership with the aim to develop a Commonwealth Esports strategy.
CGF and GEF as part of the deal will work together on specific areas aligned to Transformation 2022 – the Commonwealth Sport Movement’s Strategic Plan.
“In recent years, we have seen the dramatic rise of Esports in terms of popularity and participation, particularly the participation of young people,” CGF President Dame Louise Martin stated in a Press release. “During the COVID-19 pandemic, interest in Esports globally has continued to increase significantly which demonstrates an important characteristic of connecting people during a difficult period.
“For some time now, the CGF has been looking for a way to formally engage with Esports, to explore how it can align with the Commonwealth Sports Movement and its support of the sustainable development of digital infrastructure, connectivity and commerce across the Commonwealth. In the Global Esports Federation, we know we have the right partner to help us undertake this exciting piece of work.”
The partnership will initially focus on conducting an analysis of the status of Esports in the Commonwealth and its capacity to support and advance our vision and mission through the joint development of a values-based Commonwealth Esports strategy;
The CGF and GEF will jointly explore and develop athlete-centred, sport-focused initiatives and campaigns that harness and elevate the principles of Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, Integrity and Innovation, among others, in Esports across the Commonwealth.
GEF President Chris Chan added, “We are honoured to embark on this strategic partnership and support the Commonwealth Games Federation. This partnership further strengthens the Global Esports Federation’s mission of convening the world’s Esports ecosystem.
“The future of Esports continues to be bright, and we look forward to developing great collaborations across the world; elevating Esports based on the traditions and values of sport and the principle of harnessing technology for good.”
The deal also includes exploring the development of sustainable Esports properties (competitions and development initiatives) that could benefit CGAs and the wider Commonwealth through partnerships and promotional opportunities that connect and serve athletes, citizens and communities.