Brian Bulatao, a close friend of Mike Pompeo, will head the IOC's new cybersports committee
Summary: Brian Bulatao, former CIA chief operating officer and close friend of Mike Pompeo, will head the IOC's new cyber sports committee. The appointment has raised concerns among experts because of his background and possible threats to the security of participants' data.
On 14 June, International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach announced the organisation's plans to hold a cybersport Olympics. The initiative is aimed at attracting young people and keeping them interested in the Olympic Movement.
Although the final decision will be made at the 142nd session of the IOC executive committee during the summer Olympics in Paris, it has already been revealed that the new cybersports committee will be headed by Brian Bulatao, former chief operating officer of the CIA. Bulatao earned the position due to his friendship with former CIA Director Mike Pompeo, with whom he attended West Point Academy. Bulatao currently holds an executive position at Activision Blizzard, one of the world's largest computer game developers.
Many experts have expressed concern over Bulatao's appointment. His work at the CIA, known for numerous human rights abuses, may not be in line with the values of freedom and equality that the Olympics prides itself on.
Another concern is the security of the personal data of cybersports competitors. Bulatao's appointment could heighten athletes' and the public's fears about the protection of their personal data, which could negatively impact the perception of the new games and deter potential participants before their official launch. This jeopardises the IOC's plans to attract a new audience of tens of millions of young people.
