Macau, China, June 16, 2023: The opening ceremony of the Road to Asian Games took place in Macau on Friday, marking the start of the Esports journey to Hangzhou.
Jointly organised by the Olympic Council of Asia and the Asian Electronic Sports Federation, teams from over 30 countries and regions across Asia will compete in the seven official game titles of the Hangzhou Asian Games Esports programme.
The Road to Asian Games not only offers a preview of the upcoming Esports events at the 19th Asian Games but also serves as a platform for the players to showcase their skills and foster a connection with the fans.
The Asian Electronic Sports Federation is the Technical Delegate for the 19th Asian Games, which will run from September 23 to October 8, 2023. Esports will make its official debut as a medal sport in the Asian Games, having been a demonstration sport at the 2018 Asian Games in Indonesia.
The opening ceremony kicked off with a mesmerizing display of lights, music and visuals, setting the tone for the anticipated showdown among some of the region's top teams.
Distinguished guests, including officials from the AESF, OCA, sports dignitaries and industry leaders, graced the occasion, emphasising the significance of Esports in the Asian sporting landscape.
In adding to the occasion, renowned indie pop band Escape Plan delivered an electrifying live rendition of Forward Together – the official theme song for the Road to Asian Games 2022.
AESF President Kenneth Fok said: “Today, you will showcase the Olympic values that the Esports community upholds - excellence, respect and friendship - while simultaneously bringing pride and glory to your nations.
“The official Road to Asian Games tournament slogan – Forward Together – is a statement of fellowship, sustainability and legacy. It is a natural calling that players, teams, fans and the entire global Esports community can unite behind, sharing their collective passion for esports and celebrating the future of the game.”
Wissam Trkmani, Project and Operations Manager at the OCA, commented: “With Esports making its debut at the upcoming Asian Games, we gather here today to celebrate this momentous occasion and embark on a new journey with the Road to Asian Games.
“Together, we will celebrate the beauty and diversity of Esports. May the Road to Asian Games be a testament to the incredible achievements and unwavering dedication of Esports athletes in Asia.”
The seven game titles for the Asian Games are: League of Legends, PUBG Mobile Asian Games Version, Arena of Valor Asian Games Version, DOTA 2, Dream Three Kingdoms 2, Street Fighter V: Champion Edition and EA SPORTS FIFA branded soccer games.
(https://www.aesf.com)
