ESL recently announced plans for the fall. The twelfth season of the ESL Pro League will begin in September, with the possibility of returning to LAN matches being considered. Representatives of the tournament organizer note that they are closely monitoring the development of the health situation. They hope that by the time the competition begins, players will be able to travel safely without significant restrictions and games will be played in the studio. Twenty-four teams, divided into four groups, will have to take part in them. However, if restrictions on foreign travel continue, the tournament will be held in the already established online format, divided into regions – Europe, North America, Asia, Oceania and South America.
Regardless of the format, 24 teams must take part in the competition. Invitations have already been received by Renegades, Sharks and Boom, who missed the eleventh season due to the coronavirus pandemic. By agreement, their place in the league was retained. Eleven partner teams will also participate. The remaining places will be distributed based on the results of qualifying competitions, which will be held in all regions. Teams that were previously relegated to the Mountain Dew League due to the decision to reduce the number of Pro League participants from 48 to 24 will have the opportunity to qualify again.
