Virtual Sports are gamified traditional sports.
Science Communication and Research Network on Virtual Sports.
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Ready to learn more about Virtual Sports? #

The emergence of sports alike exergames and physical active eSports

eSports are often contested upon in the sports sector due to its lack of sports-alike physicality. A new type of exergames and eSports are emerging, however. These are increasingly physical and sports alike in nature. Imagine how Zwift compares to road cycling, or Virtual rowing to outdoor rowing.

Virtual Sports are unique in that they are in between exergames and eSports. Virtual Sports combine (1) the technological mediated nature of eSports, (2) the institutionalised and physical nature of sports, and (3) the gamified nature of Exergames.

Virtual Sports explainer
Virtual Sports explainer

A growing interest in Virtual Sports

Because of Virtual Sports' unique and innovative nature, there is a growing interest in Virtual Sports. The mission of this science communication page and network is to address this interest.

Our aims are (1) to set a name for the Virtual Sports 'label' as a new type of physical and sports-alike (eSports) games, (2) to inform people on the perspectives and debates virtual sports brings to the sports sector and academia, and (3) to connect academics with expertise in virtual sports into a network that is reachable for everyone interested.

Most Recent Blog Posts #

Digital Innovation in Cycling – Key Insights from the DigiCycle Research Report

 Photo of Grzegorz Botwina

Grzegorz Botwina

5 min read
Can virtual sports effectively increase engagement in traditional disciplines?

The Input-Output Principle of Virtual Sports

2 min read
Exploring the new playing field in sports, where transparency and perception of fairness appear crucial

Virtual Sports: an overview of what exists and what is possible

 Photo of Thibault Fouquaert

Thibault Fouquaert

24 min read
Virtual Sports are emerging in all kind of formats, to which this blogpost provides an overview

Virtual Sports Research Network #

Connecting expertise from leading academics & experts

Daniel’s work focuses on the dynamic interplay between digitalization, sports, and health management. This includes topics such as sports digitalization, sports management, transparency and fairness, and innovation in sports.
Andrew is Doctor of Social Policy and covers topics on anti-doping, image and performance enhancing drugs, body image, transgender sport, eSports, physical activity and, last but not least, virtual sports.
Willem’s research explores the intersection of technology and human behaviour in the fields of sport management, marketing and innovation.
Leanne’s expertise combines digital transformation, community engagement, and public health approaches to the sports sector, seeking impactful solutions that promote active lifestyles for all.
Charlotte is Doctor in sport sociology with interest in the sociological and policy components of sport. Her focus is on the impact of digital innovation on the field of sport and Generation Z.
Chris is the creator of the cycling esports website TheZommunique.com and co-host of The Virtual Velo Podcast. As a trusted voice with great knowledge and connections in the cycling esports field, he understands the contemporary challenges and aims to tackle these to ensure cycling esports’ success.
Dion makes knowledge about virtual sports and esports - based on science, policy and practice - available and applicable for Dutch professionals involved in sports.
Ben’s expertise lies in integrating virtual reality technology into professional sports.
Bertrik leads the dynamic Innovation Center for Esports & Gaming, and played a pivotal role in establishing the Esports Talent Center at Papendal.

Universities Involved #