Among these discussions, a major theme stands out: ‘The rise of modern sports heroes who balance traditional sports and gaming.’ Under this theme, speakers will tackle a global debate around the positioning, value, and impact of esports athletes.

With over 3.4 billion gamers worldwide and an estimated 234 million esports athletes, the world of competitive gaming is not just a niche hobby but a global phenomenon. Esports athletes exhibit the same dedication, discipline, and physical prowess as traditional sports stars. Their hard training regimens, strategic thinking, and ability to perform under pressure are comparable to those of any top-tier athlete.

HRH Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan, Chairman of the Saudi Esports Federation, said: “Esports is not just a game; it is a movement that is reshaping the landscape of sports and entertainment. The New Global Sport Conference is a testament to the growth and importance of this industry, and a recognition of the stardom of esports athletes and the unmatched passion of esports fans. The conference and the visionaries attending it from all over the world will enable impactful discussions, networking, and collaboration to drive forward the future of esports.”

Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation, said: “Esports athletes have proven time and again that they possess the same qualities as traditional sports stars. They train hard, compete fiercely, and inspire millions of fans around the world. The New Global Sport Conference is crucial in recognizing their contributions and setting the stage for the future of sports. Esports athletes are real athletes, esports fans are as passionate and loyal as any sports fans, and esports is the new global sport.”

As the world witnesses the merging of traditional sports and esports, NGSC stands at the forefront of this transformation, fostering dialogue, partnership, and innovation. The conference will help build the foundations of a future where esports and traditional sports coexist, enriching the global sports community.

Building on the success of its inaugural event last year, NGSC continues the path forged by the successful 2022 and 2023 editions of the Next World Forum. Hosted under one exclusive banner, NGSC will hold sessions highlighting the challenges and opportunities in crafting a new global sporting legacy, the role of technology in shaping the future of competitive gaming, and the art of storytelling in esports.