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Riot’s Announcement: LCS Studio Prepares to Welcome Back Players and Crew, Import Rule to Stay

Riot Games Confirms Plans for 2021 LCS Summer Split

Riot Games has announced that the 2021 LCS Summer Split will mark a return to normal operations after over a year of remote play due to COVID-19.

In a recent interview with Upcomer, Chris Greeley, Riot’s head of esports for North America and Oceania, discussed the upcoming season and the plans to bring the analyst desk and broadcast team back to the studio. While there will be no live audience for the LCS this summer, measures are being taken to ensure the return of teams and coaches to the studio.

“We are finalizing plans to get our teams back into the arena for week one,” Greeley stated. “There are still a few hurdles to overcome. As we finalize the plans, we need to discuss them with the Players Association and the teams. We are confident that the plan is good and that everyone will understand the necessary limitations on mobility to ensure safety and distance under the protocols.”

Additionally, the 2021 Summer Split will see the reintroduction of ProView, which offers fans an enhanced viewing experience. Greeley revealed that the feature has been upgraded since its last use in 2020.

Furthermore, the LCS is introducing three new segments this season. On Fridays, there will be a 30-minute debate called LanexLane, hosted by Barento “Raz” Mohammed, where analysts discuss specific topics. Julian “Pastrytime” Carr will host Replay Files on Saturdays, giving fans the opportunity to relive memorable LCS matches and speak with the players involved. Lastly, on Sundays, former pro Meteos will host a roundtable discussion with LCS pros, analysts, and community members to dive into various league and League of Legends scene topics.

Greeley also confirmed that the league will not be removing its import rule, which has been a subject of debate in recent months. After consulting with multiple LCS teams, he asserted that there is no widespread support for repealing the rule.

The 2021 LCS Summer Split begins on June 4th, so mark your calendars!

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Riot Games, LCS, 2021 Summer Split, COVID-19, esports, analyst desk, broadcast team, studio, remote play, ProView, LanexLane, Replay Files, import rule.