The spread of coronavirus in Europe has also affected the world of e-sports: the organizers of the Intel Extreme Masters tournament announced that the next stage of the event will be held without spectators. Traditionally, the venue was the Spodek Arena in Katowice, but due to the risk of the spread of a dangerous disease, local authorities were forced to limit public events.
At first it was assumed that additional security measures would be introduced at the tournament – screening at the checkpoint and taking the temperature of all those entering. However, then it was decided to completely abandon the presence of spectators at the tournament. The organizers will refund the funds to everyone who bought tickets.
Judging by posts on social networks, many players were upset by this decision, but most of them were understanding and considered it quite reasonable, despite the fact that there are no reported cases of the disease in Poland yet. The competition participants, who will have to compete without the support of fans, were also upset.
The Intel Extreme Masters playoffs take place at the Spodek Arena from February 28 to March 1. The question remains as to which other upcoming eSports events may suffer from similar restrictions.
