World Rowing Signs Esports and Gaming Partner

World Rowing, the international federation for the sport of rowing, has signed a multiyear agreement with Ergatta, which produces game-based fitness options for cardio equipment. Under the agreement, Ergatta will be the preferred partner for World Rowing’s gaming and esports initiatives, with the federation becoming the latest traditional sport to embrace a virtual component.

In collaboration with hardware partner Concept2, World Rowing intends to launch esports competitions using Ergatta’s software to promote the benefits of Indoor Rowing and healthy habits more generally. The partnership also positions both organizations for participation in the inaugural Olympic Esports Games, which the International Olympic Committee intends to organize in 2027.

“We are thrilled to partner with World Rowing,” said Tom Aulet, CEO of Ergatta. “Gamified sports and fitness have massive potential to help people excel, compete and develop lasting healthy habits. This partnership represents a major step forward in our mission to use games to help people stay physically active.”

“Indoor/connected rowing has undergone a remarkable evolution from a training tool to a vibrant, global sport in its own right,” said Vincent Gaillard, executive director of World Rowing. “We’ve been interested in gaming and esports for a long time, specifically for its potential to cater for younger and more mainstream audiences. We are delighted to partner with Ergatta, who stood out to us as one of the clear leaders in a growing field of gamified Rowing.”

The announcement comes after Ergatta’s earlier partnership with iFIT to create gaming experiences on their treadmills, bikes and rowers through an intelligent and personalized fitness content platform.