A GEF delegation led by chief executive Paul Foster visited the Chilean capital where they were hosted by Panam Sports President Neven Ilic.

During the visit, the GEF met with key stakeholders and partners, toured various venues and held preliminary discussions over the detailed programme of activities for the Pan American Esports Championships.

The GEF described the technical visit as a "critical milestone to kick-start" the staging of the event that is set to be held alongside the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games.

"The Pan American Esports Championships will be a true celebration of Esports in the Americas and will showcase our inspiring athletes on this world stages," said Foster.

"It’s great to be back in Santiago with our joint teams as we start to shape this marquee event."

Athletes from 41 nations across the Americas will have the chance to compete in the Pan American Esports Championships.

The creation of the event was confirmed after the GEF struck a deal with Panam Sports in September.

As well as the Pan American Esports Championships, the GEF team also presented the vision and plans for the Global Esports Academy to Ilic at the recent meeting in Santiago.

"Education is a real key," said Ilic.

"We are trying to offer similar opportunities to our members.

"We have already launched our Panam Sports Academy which offers educational opportunities for coaches and sport leaders, so introducing esports would be a logical next step.

"As we think about innovation in the digital world, we continue to give NOC's [National Olympic Committee] opportunities to have more knowledge in administration and how to organise Games.

"We have to give more opportunities to the athletes - I think that will be a great success.

"What the Global Esports Federation is doing is a great idea and another opportunity for collaboration."