The Global Esports Federation (GEF) has welcomed three additional international sporting federations as members of its initiative.
The World Karate Federation, International Canoe Federation, and Union Internationale de Pentathlon Modern (World Pentathlon) are the latest to join the GEF, which now has eight international federations as members.
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The addition of the three federations is said to “bridge the connection” between sport, esports, and virtual sport. How this will be done, however, is yet to be seen.
Chris Chan, President of the Global Esports Federation, spoke on the additions in a release: “The addition of new International Federation members is testament to the vital work the Global Esports Federation has put in to develop the community and facilitating the convergence of esports, sport, technology and innovation.
“We anticipate greater collaboration among our members and partners in developing initiatives that are in service to the esports community through our #worldconnected platform.”
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In August, World Archery and the International Surfing Association joined the movement in a bid to reach new audiences through existing federation members. Alongside joining the GEF, the three federations will also become members of the International Federations Advisory Council (IFAC).
Antonio Espinos, President of the World Karate Federation, spoke on joining the GEF: “We believe that the strategic partnership with the Global Esports Federation puts the World Karate Federation in the front lines of esports initiatives. This collaboration shows the WKF’s interest in continuing breaking new grounds, and it further demonstrates that karate is a modern discipline, constantly adapting to move ahead with the times.
“By working with key partners such as the GEF, we enable digital transformation for the sport to reach out to a larger audience globally. This is the first of a good deal of exciting news to come regarding karate and esports.”
Esports Insider says: The GEF continues to attract numerous federations from a range of sports, despite not showing too many results. So far, these collaborations have had little impact on the industry so it will be interesting to see what comes of these particular additions – if anything.