Esports organizer ESL has postponed the ESL One Los Angeles Dota 2 Major in light of recent travel restrictions. Unfortunately, the global COVID-19 outbreak has halted the production of many gaming events. Their Los Angeles event joins alongside ESL Pro League’s cancellation for the same reasons.
The postponed ESL One Los Angeles event has disappointed many fans. ESL originally scheduled the event for March 20-22. Unfortunately, they have not given out answers about future dates and locations as the COVID-19 situation continues to worsen. In their official statement, they state, “We are working closely with Valve to determine a new time and location for the Major.” The safety and well-being of all players and staff have been listed as a priority.
We’re currently working with the venue and ticketing provider to refund tickets as soon as possible. If you purchased a ticket, you should be receiving email communication in the coming days. We are deeply saddened that we won’t be able to bring you the event you deserved.
— ESL Dota2 🚁 (@ESLDota2) March 12, 2020
Additionally, they shared their excitement about this being the first Dota 2 Major in Los Angeles. Currently, California has counted 201 cases of the virus, sparking a State of Emergency. As the situation worsens, state officials encourage California residents to stay away from large gatherings and events.
Travel restrictions
Furthermore, the recent 30-day European travel restriction enacted by United States President Donald Trump has created difficulties for ESL organizers. ESL’s other gaming event, the ESL Pro League, expressed players and staff concerns regarding the inability to travel home from the U.S. and vice versa. Esports journalist Rod “Slasher” Breslau shared some insight from sources linking the travel restrictions to ESL One’s postponement, stating, “Players and casters were worried about how they would get home.” Also, because of the travel restrictions, many European teams across the globe will be unable to travel to the U.S. for any reason, whether it be for events or to utilize gaming facilities.
ESL and Valve's move from not allowing fans to a full on cancellation of the Major is a direct result of Trump's travel suspension from Europe to the US as players and casters were worried about how they would get home, sources said
— Rod Breslau (@Slasher) March 12, 2020
Moreover, ESL will work with the venue provider to disperse refunds to all ESL One Los Angeles ticket holders. As the COVID-19 global situation worsens, esports organizers and gaming companies may soon make tough decisions regarding their events.
Daily Esports will keep you updated as more details develop.
