Week 9 of 2021 LCS Summer Split will be played remotely.

All LCS Pros to Play Remotely in Final Week of 2021 Summer Split to Prioritize Health and Safety

LCS commissioner Chris Greeley announced today that all professional players will compete remotely during the last week of the 2021 Summer Split. This decision was made in order to protect the health and well-being of both LCS players and staff. However, the rest of the broadcast team will still be operating from the LCS Studio.

This precautionary measure was prompted by recent events. Last week, the league became aware of two COVID-19 cases linked to a staff member of an LCS team. The first case involved the Immortals, who had to undergo a team-wide quarantine after two positive coronavirus tests. The league collaborated with the team to identify potential contacts, but the matches proceeded as planned at the studio.

The following day, the LCS decided to switch back to remote play following another positive COVID-19 test connected to a staff member from an unnamed organization. Riot Games confirmed that the positive tests were from individuals who were not present at the studio, so the changes were purely precautionary.

Regarding the playoffs, the LCS plans to have teams present at the studio since there will be fewer teams and individuals on-site each day. Additionally, for Pro View subscribers, the league is preparing in-game rewards as a special treat.

COVID-19 has been impacting the world of League of Legends esports for almost two years. Some leagues, such as Europe’s LEC, only recently resumed stage play a few weeks ago. Even then, numerous precautions must be taken to ensure the safety of players and staff who enter and exit the studios.

Don’t miss out on the final week of the 2021 LCS Summer Split regular season, starting on Friday, July 30.

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LCS, esports, 2021 Summer Split, COVID-19, health and safety, remote play, playoffs, League of Legends