Brazilian Sports ministry confirms that eSports is indeed a sport.

It was  just  like  any other  sporting event.

The teams arrived, the media set up their cameras, and there was a flurry of activity from the organisers.

Such was the opening of the finals for CounterStrike: GO as the Confederação Brasileira do Desporto Eletrônico (CBDEL) held its team selections for IeSF's 8th World Championships - Jakarta.

The event started with Daniel Cossi (President of CBDEL) giving a rousing speech. Colin Webster (Board member of IeSF) followed, and explained to all the benefits that gamers get through National Federations working in close harmony with IeSF.

Paulo Protasio (President of the Rio Chamber of Commerce) then took to the floor.

The last speaker was Secretary of the Ministry of Sports, Luiz Lima.

Although all the speeches were both interesting and relevant, all were eclipsed when Luiz openly declared the Ministry's support for eSports.

It is remarkable that CBDEL has achieved in two short years what many federations have taken decades to achieve,

Viva CBDEL, viva Brazil, viva!

Brazil - an experience

Daniel Cossi of CBDEL at the Copacabana

On my arrival in Rio, one can easily see why the country was selected to host the Olympics.

There was absolute commitment from both the government and the people.

As a South African in Rio, at no time did I ever feel unsafe, and found the population to be warm and hospitable.

The warm relaxed atmosphere in Rio, pervades all life.

Sitting at one of the many cafes on the Copacabana sipping one of the many exquisite concoctions, it is not hard to see why Rio has captured the hearts off so many people.