New Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Unlikely as SEGA’s IOC Deal Focuses on Merchandise

Fans hoping for a new Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games entry may want to temper expectations. According to Lee Cocker, the producer behind the long-running crossover sports series, SEGA’s recently announced deal with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) is focused purely on merchandise, not video games.

Cocker explained that he has not been informed of any new game development tied to the SEGA–Olympics partnership, clarifying that the collaboration appears centered on themed products rather than another title. He also added that even if a new project were to happen, it likely would not feature Mario — which would align with the statement Cocker made last year saying SEGA and Nintendo’s crossover era may be on pause for the foreseeable future.

The Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games series began in 2007 with the Beijing Olympics edition and became a regular release accompanying each major event, combining the worlds of both franchises in high-energy athletic competitions. The most recent entry, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020, launched in 2019 for the Nintendo Switch.

For now, SEGA’s focus appears to be on commemorative Sonic-branded Olympic merchandise through its new IOC licensing program, rather than reviving its iconic crossover sports series.

Stay tuned to Sonic City for more news and updates on SEGA’s future Olympic projects.