The spread of the coronavirus in Europe has also affected the world of cybersports: 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 spreading a dangerous disease, local authorities were forced to limit mass events.
At first, it was assumed that additional security measures would be introduced at the tournament – checkpoint checks and temperature measurement of all entrants. However, it was then decided to eliminate the presence of spectators at the tournament altogether. The organizers will refund everyone who bought tickets.
Judging by the posts on social media, many players were upset by this decision, but most of them were sympathetic to it and found it quite reasonable, despite the fact that there are no reported cases in Poland so far. The competitors who will have to perform without fan support were also disappointed.
The Intel Extreme Masters playoffs take place at Spodek Arena from February 28 to March 1. For now, it remains an open question as to which other upcoming cybersports events may be affected by such restrictions.
