LAUSANNE, Switzerland (AP) — A competitive virtual sports event was launched Thursday by the International Olympic Committee.
The Olympic Virtual Series will include five sports — baseball, cycling, auto racing, rowing and sailing — and runs from May 13 to June 23. The Tokyo Olympics open on July 23.
Gaming brands involved in the project include Gran Turismo, Zwift and Konami’s eBaseball Powerful Pro Baseball 2020.
″(The series) will mobilize virtual sport, esports and gaming enthusiasts all around the world in order to reach new Olympic audiences,” the IOC said in a statement.
Details of prizes offered in some events are being finalized, the IOC said.