Federations Respond to World Esports Cup 2024 Safety Concerns

The International Esports Federation (IESF) and several national member federations have addressed public concerns regarding the safety of LGBTQ+ participants at the upcoming World Esports Cup 2024, scheduled for November in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The inquiry was prompted by public discourse surrounding travel advisories and the ability of federations to guarantee the security of gay and transgender athletes in a host nation with strict cultural and legal codes.

The IESF maintains that Saudi Arabia is a safe and inclusive destination, citing the country's history of hosting major international sporting events and the absence of safety incidents during the 2023 Asian Championship in Riyadh. To mitigate concerns, the IESF is developing a comprehensive handbook to guide attendees on local laws and customs. While the IESF emphasizes its commitment to participant well-being, it notes that it cannot provide absolute guarantees, instead focusing on providing information and preparation for national delegations.

Individual national federations offered varying responses to inquiries regarding safety protocols and inclusivity. Some organizations, such as the Israeli Esports Federation and the Belgian Esports Federation, explicitly stated their support for LGBTQ+ athletes and their reliance on diplomatic channels and local security coordination to ensure safety. Others, including the Slovak Esports Association, highlighted the legal limitations of a federation’s ability to guarantee individual safety, emphasizing that participation remains a personal decision for athletes. The Iraqi Esports Federation noted that while the event is generally safe, it advised that participants should adhere to local public conduct expectations. Overall, the responses reflect a range of approaches to managing international event risks, balancing organizational support with the realities of host-country regulations.