Singapore to Recognize Esports as Sports

More

15 January 2026 09:11

On January 14, 2026, Singaporean Parliament passed the Singapore Sports Council (Amendment) Bill, officially classifying esports alongside mind sports such as chess and bridge as recognised sports under national law.This update amends the Singapore Sports Council Act, which dates back to 1973, by broadening the definition of "sports" to include these emerging and traditional mental competitions.

The change means Sport Singapore (SportSG) can now extend tailored support, funding, and resources to esports organisations, players, and related programs, based on each activity's specific needs and governance standards.Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth David Neo, who introduced the bill during its first reading on November 4, 2025, “The bill is an important enabler in driving Singapore’s sporting culture, and for our national sport ecosystem to be inclusive, dynamic, and future-ready,” he said. “It reaffirms that sport is for everyone, regardless of age or ability, and our effort for every Singaporean to live better through sport.

”The legislation also strengthens SportSG's overall mandate. It grants the body greater authority to develop new training facilities for athletes, introduce updated coaching standards, and advance sports science initiatives. These enhancements aim to create a more robust and adaptable framework as new forms of competition gain popularity.

Singapore now joins a select group of countries that have embedded esports recognition into national legislation, signaling strong governmental backing for the industry's growth. For a nation already known for its competitive gaming scene, including hosting major tournaments and nurturing talent, this move could unlock more opportunities for professional players, teams, and grassroots programs.

More:SOOP Partners with Riot Games for LCK

Tags: Singapore

Share:

Sources:

Report mistake Submit news

Related news

View All

Shion's Abilities, Perks, and Ultimate in Overwatch Explained

Shion is the newest damage hero joining Overwatch with Season 3: Into the Tiger's Den, and she stands out before...

More

Jun 12, 2026

EWC 2026 Creator Program Opens With $2M in Rewards

So not only teams are competing for awards this year. The Esports Foundation has announced its Creator Program for 2026,...

More

Jun 12, 2026

League of Legends Couple Receives Custom Riot Wedding Gift

Riot Games has sent a personalised wedding gift to a couple who first met through League of Legends, after a...

More

Jun 12, 2026

Destiny 2's Final Update Draws Its Biggest Crowd in Years

Destiny 2 has pulled more than 160,000 concurrent players on Steam after the release of Monument of Triumph, its final...

More

Jun 11, 2026

Marvel Rivals Season 8.5 Adds Cyclops on June 12

Marvel Rivals is rolling out its Season 8.5 mid-season update on June 12, and the centrepiece is Cyclops, the X-Men...

More

Jun 10, 2026

Singapore to Recognize Esports as Sports

More

15 January 2026 09:11

Tags: Singapore

On January 14, 2026, Singaporean Parliament passed the Singapore Sports Council (Amendment) Bill, officially classifying esports alongside mind sports such as chess and bridge as recognised sports under national law.This update amends the Singapore Sports Council Act, which dates back to 1973, by broadening the definition of "sports" to include these emerging and traditional mental competitions.

The change means Sport Singapore (SportSG) can now extend tailored support, funding, and resources to esports organisations, players, and related programs, based on each activity's specific needs and governance standards.Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth David Neo, who introduced the bill during its first reading on November 4, 2025, “The bill is an important enabler in driving Singapore’s sporting culture, and for our national sport ecosystem to be inclusive, dynamic, and future-ready,” he said. “It reaffirms that sport is for everyone, regardless of age or ability, and our effort for every Singaporean to live better through sport.

”The legislation also strengthens SportSG's overall mandate. It grants the body greater authority to develop new training facilities for athletes, introduce updated coaching standards, and advance sports science initiatives. These enhancements aim to create a more robust and adaptable framework as new forms of competition gain popularity.

Singapore now joins a select group of countries that have embedded esports recognition into national legislation, signaling strong governmental backing for the industry's growth. For a nation already known for its competitive gaming scene, including hosting major tournaments and nurturing talent, this move could unlock more opportunities for professional players, teams, and grassroots programs.

More:SOOP Partners with Riot Games for LCK

Share:

Sources:

Report mistake Submit news