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The German Disabled Sports Association (DBS) also clearly positioned itself today against the inclusion of Esport, thus also missing an opportunity. For Secretary General Thomas Urban, esport is fundamentally not a sport.
Nevertheless, the DBS would like to support esports as a complementary offer to the core offer of the clubs, since “eSports offer more opportunities for participation in terms of own activities and social interaction, especially for people with mobility impairments”. However, the association expressly rejects titles “that aim to injure or kill virtual human game characters.” Except FIFA, this leaves almost all successful Esport titles out for disabled sports!
Credit must also be given to the association for the following statement:
eSports has a great relevance for people with disabilities. Players with and without disabilities can compete and interact in a joint game. In this way, barriers can be broken down and positive experiences promoted. In addition, certain game titles can also help improve cognitive and sensorimotor skills. For people with obility restrictions, eSports also means more
Participation opportunities regarding own activities and social interaction. Sports simulations in particular can be a way for people with disabilities to get more exercise and sports in their daily lives.
As a consequence, the DBS currently sees no need to include esport competitions in the Paralympic program or to support such a development.
Marian Härtel is a lawyer and entrepreneur specializing in copyright law, competition law and IT/IP law, with a focus on games, esports, media and blockchain.
