China’s League of Legends Pro League to Proceed Without English Broadcast for 2024
The League of Legends Pro League (LPL) in China will not have an English broadcast for the 2024 season, leaving English-speaking fans in the dark. This news was announced by former caster and personality Christopher “MonteCristo” Mykles just hours before the Worlds 2023 grand final in Seoul, South Korea. The existing production has been canceled, and Riot Games has yet to establish a replacement broadcast. MonteCristo expressed his disappointment that one of the best leagues in the world might become less accessible for fans.
Riot’s Stryker facility in Dublin may take over the coverage remotely, but with just a few months before the 2024 season begins, there may not be enough time for this transition. MonteCristo, who provided English coverage of the LCK in the past, understands the importance of an English broadcast for the League’s Eastern regions and hopes a solution can be found. He attributes this situation to the Chinese stakeholders at the LPL, emphasizing that it’s not Riot HQ’s fault.
Alex “Nymaera” Hapgood, a freelance color caster for the LPL English broadcast, was also taken by surprise by the announcement. They expressed satisfaction with the broadcast this year and hope to continue their efforts next year as well. However, the sudden news has left them uncertain about the future.
Fans and players are disappointed by this news, especially on Worlds’ Championship Sunday. Losing English coverage for one of the top leagues in the world would be devastating for the scene and its community. This announcement adds to the disappointment of rumors that the LCS will be downsized next year. Hopefully, a resolution can be found for LPL fans before the Spring Split begins in 2024.