The classification of esports events: Definitions, sizes and composite index development

Newham, Thomas, Scelles, Nicolas ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6177-5307 and Valenti, Maurizio (2025) The classification of esports events: Definitions, sizes and composite index development. Managing Sport and Leisure. ISSN 2375-0472 (In Press)

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Abstract

Purpose/Rationale This study aims to advance understanding of the size of esports events. Specifically, it seeks to address an academic gap by devising a methodology to measure the size of esports events. Design/Methodology/Approach The research develops a classification system for esports events. This system draws upon size characteristics from literature on sports mega events, adapting Müller’s (2015) taxonomy and Flyvbjerg (2014)’s sublimes (political, technological, and aesthetic) to esports events. Findings A composite index is developed and applied to 53 esports events. This index factors in online and in-person attendance, prize money enabling a ranking of events by size. Practical Implications The classification system offers managers and organisers within the esports sector an essential communication tool, enhancing the strategic planning, marketing, and delivery of events. Research Contribution This research advances comprehension of esports events by providing a framework for classification and measurement. It represents a significant contribution to the academic discourse surrounding event management and esports. Originality/Value Introducing a classification system tailored for esports, based on adapted concepts from the literature on sports events, this research sheds new light on how esports events can be categorised and assessed