Riot Games suspends LCK due to coronavirus outbreak
Riot Games has suspended the LCK indefinitely due to the coronavirus outbreak. The league, considered the best in the world, will close after the first round of games on March 6. The league’s weekly talk show, “Sunday Night LCK,” will also be suspended.
Coronavirus impact on esports events
The LCK’s suspension is the latest in a series of esports events affected by the respiratory illness. South Korea’s Overwatch League team, the Seoul Dynasty, has already canceled several matches. China’s premier League of Legends league, the LPL, has also been greatly affected, with the league being suspended indefinitely after the first week of play.
Effects on Mid-Season Invitational and Worlds
The suspension of the LCK and LPL will severely hinder the preparation of Korea and China for the Mid-Season Invitational. Riot has also delayed the announcement of details for the event, including dates and location, due to the coronavirus. Both South Korea and China have hosted the League of Legends World Championship in the past, and China is set to host it again later this year.
Health concerns and commitment to hosting Worlds
The municipal government of Shanghai, where the 2020 Worlds finals will be held, has encouraged organizers to consider an online model instead of LAN matches to prevent the spread of the virus. Despite the growing number of cases, the government is committed to hosting Worlds later this year.
Riot Games, LCK, esports events, coronavirus, Mid-Season Invitational, League of Legends World Championship, Shanghai, Seoul Dynasty, LPL