The Presidents That Believed in National Esports

The International Esports Federation was built on belief, belief in nations, in athletes, and in the power of unity through competitive gaming. Since 2008, leaders from around the world have carried this belief forward, shaping IESF into the world’s only global body dedicated to uniting esports.

Each president brought their own vision, passion, and purpose, guiding IESF through defining moments that turned a bold idea into a lasting legacy. This is a tribute to the presidents who believed in National Esports and led the movement that continues to shape our community’s future.

Sin Bae Kim (2008–2010) – The Founding Visionary

It all began with Sin Bae Kim, a pioneer who saw the potential of esports long before it was widely recognized. In 2008, he founded the International Esports Federation, laying the foundation for what would become a global movement. Under his leadership, the first World Esports Championship transformed the dream of international competition into reality. Sin Bae Kim gave esports a home and a future.

Ki Haeng Cho (2010–2011) – The Builder

Ki Haeng Cho followed in the founder’s footsteps by focusing on structure and sustainability. He understood that vision needs a strong framework to thrive. During his presidency, IESF’s internal systems were strengthened, its credibility grew, and the groundwork for international recognition began to take shape. His leadership brought much-needed stability to a young organization finding its place in the world of sports.

Jun Ho Kim (2011–2012) – The Connector

Jun Ho Kim believed that unity was esports’ greatest strength. His term focused on building bridges between nations and creating a sense of community within IESF. Through diplomacy and collaboration, he expanded the federation’s network, encouraging communication and trust between member countries. Under his leadership, IESF became more than an organization — it became a community built on connection and respect.

Hyung Hee Lee (2012–2013) – The Strategist

As IESF entered a new stage of growth, Hyung Hee Lee brought strategic direction and focus. He emphasized transparency, integrity, and trust among members, strengthening governance and reinforcing IESF’s reputation as a credible global body. His leadership helped the organization mature and prepare for the years of expansion ahead.

Byung Hun Jun (2013–2018) – The Core Builder

Byung Hun Jun’s five-year presidency was a period of structure and stability. He built the operational backbone that continues to support IESF today. By defining processes, establishing standards, and guiding expansion, he helped turn the federation from a developing initiative into a fully functional international organization. His legacy lies in the lasting systems that continue to uphold the world of esports governance.

Silviu Stroie (2018) – The Pioneer of Change

When Silviu Stroie became Acting President, it marked a new chapter in IESF’s story. As the first non-Korean to hold the position, he represented inclusivity and global representation. Though his tenure was brief, it symbolized a turning point, a step toward a more diverse and internationally united federation.

Colin Webster (2018–2020) – The Administrator

Colin Webster brought structure and professionalism to IESF. With a strong background in governance and administration, he focused on transparency, compliance, and accountability, essential traits for global credibility. Under his leadership, IESF refined its operations and became a more efficient, reliable institution, ready to enter a new era of growth.

Vlad Marinescu (2020–2023) – The Growth Leader

Under Vlad Marinescu, IESF experienced unprecedented expansion. Membership grew beyond 140 nations, and the federation solidified its role within the global sports community. Marinescu forged partnerships with international organizations, strengthened unity among members, and championed host city development for IESF’s annual events. His tenure brought energy, progress, and global recognition, setting new benchmarks for what IESF could achieve.

Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud (2023–Present) – The Current Leadership

Today, under the leadership of HRH Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud, IESF represents a global community of more than 150 nations. His presidency continues the federation’s mission to promote collaboration, unity, and integrity at every level of esports. As IESF looks ahead, it remains guided by the same belief that inspired its founding, that esports can unite nations, empower players, and inspire the world.

A Legacy of Belief and Leadership

Each president shared the same conviction: that esports deserves the same respect, structure, and global recognition as any traditional sport. Their leadership didn’t just build an organization; it built a movement.

They didn’t just lead IESF. They believed in it.

And through that belief, they created what many now call the United Nations of Esports.

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The International Esports Federation was built on belief, belief in nations, in athletes, and in the power of unity through competitive gaming. Since 2008, leaders from around the world have carried this belief forward, shaping IESF into the world’s only global body dedicated to uniting esports. Each president brought their own vision, passion, and purpose,
The post The Presidents That Believed in National Esports appeared first on IESF.