Esports: Leveling Up Teach-Out

Recognition as a sport outside of the esports community will be key to its growth. Esports were recognized as official sports by South Korea and China in the early 2000s. In May of 2021, the Olympic Virtual Series debuted. It’s a  five-event series aimed to mobilize virtual sport and gaming enthusiasts all around the world. But can we expect to see esports included in larger arenas? In this opinion piece from the Financial Times, it is argued that the Olympics need esports more than esports need the Olympics, citing reasons such as improved viewership.

Reflection Questions

• What argument can you make for the inclusion of esports in the Olympics? Conversely, what are some reasons you don’t believe they should be included in the Olympics?