Co-authored with Ms. Coralie Trichard (Astura law firm), Ms. Chomiac de Sas published a legal article in the latest issue of the journal “Le Juriste International” (The International Lawyer) focusing on the historical and contemporary connections between traditional sports and esports.
Esports: Legally Excluded from the Sports Framework
Esports, as a video game competition, has developed by mimicking the organization of the traditional sports sector. However, lawmakers have refused to apply sports law to esports, citing a twofold difference: the nature of the video game itself, which serves as the medium for the competition, and the associated intellectual property rights.
The legal convergence of these two activities is still hampered today by the artistic nature of video games, although there is considerable overlap with traditional sports. Esports practice remains dependent on publishers, who own the intellectual property rights. However, this legal barrier does not seem sufficient to halt the expansion of esports.
Esports Law, the Olympic Games, and Esports Events
This publication is situated within the contemporary context of the rapprochement between the Olympic Committee and esports organizations, which have considered holding the first Esports Games in Saudi Arabia, initially planned for 2027. It also addresses the increasing involvement of public authorities, particularly the ministries of sports, culture, and digital affairs, which are interested in developing the French esports scene.
The full article can be found in the December 2025 issue of the International Lawyer (2025-03).
