TL;DR
- Worlds 2020 scheduled from September 25 to October 31 entirely in Shanghai for safety
- Hybrid format with online stages and limited live finals at new 33,000-capacity Pudong Stadium
- Riot collaborating with Chinese authorities and health experts for comprehensive safety protocols
- Future Worlds locations confirmed for China 2021 and North America 2022
- Enhanced visa processing and strict health measures for international teams
Riot Games has confirmed its commitment to hosting the 2020 League of Legends World Championship in China, implementing extensive safety measures to protect all participants during the global health situation.
The premier competitive League of Legends tournament kicks off on September 25th and concludes on October 31st, with Shanghai serving as the exclusive host city. This concentrated approach minimizes cross-regional travel risks while maintaining competitive integrity. The championship finale aligns with Halloween celebrations, creating a memorable backdrop for crowning the new world champion.
Strategic centralization in Shanghai represents Riot’s proactive response to global travel complexities. Earlier discussions in July highlighted potential bubble system implementation, though current operational details remain flexible. Critical timing elements like team arrival schedules and mandatory quarantine periods are still being finalized with health authorities.
10 years of Worlds & we’re just getting started. Welcome to Worlds 2020. It’s our time to Take Over. #Worlds2020 pic.twitter.com/wPY86hy5rk
— LoL Esports (@lolesports) August 1, 2020
Competitive phases including Play-In, main event, and knockout stages will utilize online formats to ensure participant safety. The grand finals transition to the newly constructed Pudong Soccer Stadium, featuring cutting-edge facilities designed for large-scale esports productions. Audience attendance remains conditional on local health guidelines, with detailed safety protocols and ticketing information forthcoming.
The World Championship returns to China in 2021 to deliver the complete fan experience that current circumstances prevent. Looking further ahead, the 2022 edition will mark the tournament’s return to North American soil.
Riot’s comprehensive safety framework addresses multiple risk vectors through coordinated planning with health professionals. The bubble system concept, previously explored for esports events, involves creating isolated environments where players, staff, and officials operate within controlled zones, minimizing external exposure.
The 33,000-seat Pudong Soccer Stadium represents Shanghai’s commitment to world-class esports infrastructure. This state-of-the-art venue incorporates advanced ventilation systems and crowd management technologies suitable for pandemic-era events. Key considerations include staggered entry procedures, designated seating arrangements, and enhanced sanitation protocols throughout the facility.
International team logistics present significant challenges, particularly regarding quarantine requirements. Most health authorities recommend at least two weeks of isolation upon international arrival, though specific timelines for competing organizations remain under discussion. Teams typically face complex preparation timelines that must account for acclimatization, practice sessions, and administrative procedures.
Common operational pitfalls include underestimating documentation requirements and last-minute travel complications. Successful navigation requires early visa applications, comprehensive health documentation, and contingency planning for unexpected delays. Organizations should maintain flexible travel arrangements and communicate proactively with event organizers.
According to Nicolo Laurent, Riot Games CEO, the company maintains active partnerships with Chinese local and national government bodies. This multi-level coordination ensures alignment with current regulations while facilitating efficient problem-solving for international participants.
Riot’s engagement with safety consultants and medical institutions establishes evidence-based protocols for participant protection. Government involvement significantly streamlines visa approval processes, addressing a persistent challenge for esports athletes competing across borders. Visa complications historically disrupt team preparations and competitive performance at global tournaments.
With teams converging from diverse global regions, Riot anticipates implementing rigorous health screening and monitoring protocols. These measures likely include regular testing, symptom tracking, and restricted movement policies during the event. The developer’s approach reflects lessons learned from other international sporting events navigating similar challenges.
Strategic partnerships with health authorities provide access to real-time epidemiological data and expert guidance. This collaborative model enables dynamic response to changing conditions while maintaining event integrity. Teams should prepare for comprehensive health documentation requirements and potential last-minute protocol adjustments.
Action Checklist
- Monitor official Riot channels for updated safety protocols and ticketing information
- Review team arrival schedules and quarantine requirements as they’re announced
- Prepare necessary documentation for potential live attendance, including health certificates
- Follow participating teams’ social media for behind-the-scenes content and updates
- Plan viewing schedule accounting for different time zones and stage transitions
No reproduction without permission：Game Guides Online » 2020 LoL World Championship date, location announced Comprehensive guide to understanding Riot's safety protocols and strategic planning for the 2020 League of Legends World Championship