Virtual Olympics and its pros and cons

The International Olympic Committee’s new reform strategy, entitled Olympic Agenda 2020+5, succeeds the previous roadmap adopted in December 2014 during IOC President Thomas Bach’s first term. The new plan, spanning an additional five years, as indicated by the “+5,” will extend to the end of Bach’s second term as president. The virtual sports described by the IOC are competitions where players’ physical movements are reflected in a virtual, online environment, as opposed to e-sports, where players pit their video gaming skills against rivals. Since 2020, there has been a marked rise in online competitive events as athletes face pandemic-induced travel restrictions. A virtual version of the renowned Tour de France bike race and the world rowing virtual indoor championships were two such examples. Not all sports are suited to virtual adaptation: combat sports and ball games are particularly difficult. Jūdō, wrestling, taekwondo, and boxing require physical contact between athletes—the antithesis of virtual sports. Virtual adaptation is more conceivable for sports that are judged and scored. Gymnastics and rhythmic gymnastics would be comparatively easy to stage, with athletes performing at facilities in their home countries. Events could be scored by an international panel of judges connected online. Figure skating would also be viable if certain standards were established for ice rinks. Diving, archery, and shooting likewise would be possible. The gathering of people from around the world and their interaction helps to promote world peace, which is one of the Olympic ideals. Is this also achievable with virtual sports, though? These are key questions posed by the idea of a virtual Olympics. The IOC should enthusiastically embrace new technologies adapted to modern needs while also carefully considering the pros and cons of any new approach. To know more about this news, check out: https://www.nippon.com/en/japan-topics/g01077/