The International Olympic Committee (IOC) appears to be slowing down its aggressive expansion strategy as it grapples with revenue concerns and the need for better long-term planning. Under new president Kirsty Coventry, the organisation has paused key initiatives aimed at attracting younger audiences.
Pause on 2030 Youth Olympic Games
The bidding process for the 2030 Youth Olympic Games — which included bids from Asuncion, Bangkok, and Santiago — has been halted. Coventry stated that the IOC needs “a real reflection” on the purpose of the Youth Olympics, noting that the vision across the Olympic Movement is currently disjointed.
Olympic bidding expert Robert Livingstone commented:
“It seems the IOC’s expansion era is over and they’re pulling back to address a drop in revenues. The Youth Olympics, as we knew them, are done – and the Esports Games may never launch.”
Olympic Esports Project in Limbo
The ambitious Olympic Esports Games, originally planned for around 2027, face an uncertain future. A major hosting and sponsorship deal with Saudi Arabia fell through in late 2025 due to governance and control issues. The IOC was reportedly uncomfortable with the level of influence and the centralised model.
Coventry confirmed the project is “very much alive” but is now being handled directly under her Executive Office with a more cautious approach. The IOC Esports Commission has been disbanded as the organisation prioritises its core Olympic Games business.
Revenue Context
The main Olympic Games remain the IOC’s primary revenue generator. The 2021-2024 cycle generated approximately $12 billion, mostly from broadcasting rights and sponsorships. In contrast, the Youth Olympic Games and proposed Esports events do not deliver comparable commercial returns.
What Lies Ahead
While future editions of the Youth Olympics have not been cancelled — with Dakar 2026 and Dolomiti Valtellina 2028 still scheduled — the IOC is undergoing a significant strategic reset. The organisation aims to strengthen its foundation before pursuing further expansion.
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