The upcoming Asian Games, to be held in Japan, will once again include esports as an official medal event, marking the second time the discipline has been part of the medal program. The event is expected to drive further growth in the professional esports industry.
The recognition of esports as an official sport at major multi-sport events like the Asian Games not only elevates the status of professional gamers but also opens opportunities for investment, commercialization, and the development of the esports ecosystem across the region. This is seen as a significant step forward following esports' debut at the Asian Games 2022, which were held in 2023.
Industry experts believe that the continued inclusion of esports as an official event will provide strong momentum for standardizing tournaments, attracting more sponsors, and expanding the global audience. The 2026 Asian Games promises to be a powerful catalyst for the gaming and esports industry in Asia.
