Paris24 co-Chair Tony Estanguet said that he will "hold talks with esports representatives and the IOC about the possibility" of esports joining the '24 Games, according to Rob Harris of the AP. Estanguet "believes that a contest of digital prowess should be considered a legitimate sport if the Olympics is to maintain its relevance for new generations of fans." He said, "We have to look at it because we can’t say, ‘It’s not us. It’s not about Olympics.’ The youth, yes they are interested in esport and this kind of thing. Let’s look at it. Let’s meet them. Let’s try if we can find some bridges." The '24 program will start to be shaped in '19, with a "final decision on the addition of sports in Paris to be taken by the IOC" after the '20 Tokyo Games. Estanguet: "There is some time to look at it, to interact, to engage. We will spend some time after (the IOC meeting in September) Lima to engage with new people and stakeholders. The IOC will have the last ... say, if they want esports on the program. Let’s discuss among ourselves" (AP, 8/8).
