Statement of the International Esports Federation

As the uniting body for World Esports, IESF strives to be the responsible and credible voice for our athletes, National Member Federations, Continental Federations and the entire World Esports Family.

In the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the IESF Executive Board met to discuss the participation of Russian athletes in its events, including the upcoming 2022 World Esports Championships online regional qualifiers and Finals. IESF took into consideration a number of factors including its duty to promote unity, peace and sporting integrity, and to protect the rights and welfare of athletes. IESF has made a commitment to provide all athletes with a safe and supportive environment where they have the tools and resources to perform at their full potential.

IESF is also required to act in accordance with the Statutes that have been shaped by our Member Federations. Within the IESF Statutes, it is stipulated that any sanctions on a Member Federation must be approved by the IESF General Assembly. The IESF is currently liaising with Member Federations in order for an Extraordinary General Assembly to be called at the earliest possible time, to discuss and vote on any proposed sanctions from the IESF Executive Board.

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IESF stands in solidarity with Ukraine, the Ukrainian Esports Federation and its athletes. Our thoughts are with the innocent people affected by this senseless violence, and we remain hopeful that the conflict will be resolved and that peace will be restored in Ukraine.

Sport has the unique power to connect people from around the world and provides us with a platform for peace building and future conflict prevention. We urge all members of the World Esports Family to use this platform for positive change and to embody IESF’s values of respect, unity and friendship as we navigate this difficult situation.