Recognizing cybersports’ growing popularity and potential, the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a regulation outlining a comprehensive plan for developing and popularizing cybersports in the country.
Under this new decree, cybersport has been officially recognized as a separate sport in Uzbekistan. The document emphasizes the importance of training and retraining professional cyber athletes, coaches, referees, commentators, and other specialists in the field of cybersports. The aim is to establish a robust system that nurtures talent and ensures the highest competition standards.
The decree calls for the organization of national and international championships and tournaments, promoting the participation of Uzbek athletes in prestigious international and regional events.
Furthermore, efforts will be made to create scientific and educational materials, manuals, and literature to enhance knowledge and understanding of various types of cybersports.
Other aspects
Infrastructure development is a key focus as well. The plan seeks to improve the cybersports infrastructure, attract direct investments, and foster a positive public opinion about the benefits and potential of cybersports.
The Ministry of Sports Development, the Ministry for Information Technology and Communications Development, and the Agency for Youth Affairs have been designated responsible government agencies.
The decree also outlines events that will occur annually, including the Uzbekistan Esports Championship in April, the Cabinet Cup tournament in December, and the Youth Cup in June. These events will serve as platforms for showcasing the talent and skills of Uzbek cybersport athletes.
In addition, an Interagency Council has been established to oversee the further development and popularization of cybersports in Uzbekistan. This council will play a vital role in coordinating efforts and ensuring the effective implementation of the measures outlined in the decree.
A program of measures has been approved to support cybersports’ growth. These measures include the establishment of a cybersports league, strengthening the activities of sports federations and associations, improving state management in the field of cybersports development, and addressing factors that may negatively impact the health of cybersport athletes.
One notable aspect of the program is the phased elimination of the ping problem in cybersports. This issue, which affects the smoothness and responsiveness of online gaming, will be tackled systematically to enhance the overall gaming experience.
Furthermore, the program emphasizes developing and commercializing cybersports games that can compete in the international market. Strengthening outreach efforts to raise awareness about the potential of cybersports and fostering a healthy sports culture among young people involved in the field are also important goals.
The State University of Physical Culture and Sport will introduce a bachelor’s degree program in “Sports Activity: Cybersport” starting in the next academic year to support individuals’ professional development in cybersports.
Additionally, winners of the national Uzbekistan Esports Championship will be exempted from certain professional exams, recognizing their outstanding achievements.
The Institute for Retraining and Professional Development of Specialists in Physical Culture and Sports will play a pivotal role in organizing retraining programs for coaches, observers, referees, and other specialists in cybersports, ensuring they stay up to date with the latest advancements in the field.
A modern cyber zone will be established in the Olympic City, constructed in the Yashnabad district of Tashkent to create a dedicated space for cybersports events. This cyber zone will serve as a hub for hosting championships, tournaments, and competitions in cybersports, providing participants with state-of-the-art facilities.
Furthermore, regional authorities have been tasked with developing “road maps” to popularize at least two types of cybersports in one district or city within their respective regions. This approach aims to promote inclusivity and provide opportunities for individuals from various regions to engage in cybersports.
