A funny situation for LoL professionals of the LCS. After a victory in League of Legends, they are no longer allowed to celebrate with the fans. The reason for this decision is the coronavirus.
The outbreak of the coronavirus (Covid-19) is increasingly affecting daily life and large events. Esports events in the West are now also being affected, as some professionals from League of Legends are experiencing. They are no longer allowed to have close contact with fans after a match.
What’s it about? After a victory in League of Legends (and many other sports), it is common to walk past the cheering crowd, shake a few hands, or high-five a row of fans – the typical “High Five” gesture for a successful match. However, this has now been officially prohibited by the LCS, the US-LoL league. The reason for this is the coronavirus, which is currently spreading around the world. In a statement, it says:
Out of an abundance of caution due to the outbreak of the coronavirus, we will be suspending all fan meet-and-greets, victory high-fives, and handshakes after victories until further notice.
At least spectators on site can now get a refund for their tickets if they were looking forward to these fan meet-ups or other contact.
However, there is also reason for joy for LoL players – as a popular mode is back.
How serious is the coronavirus? The exact consequences of the coronavirus are still uncertain. Expert estimates vary widely. Currently, it is estimated that the mortality rate is around 1% – 2% – which would mean that in the worst case, 1 in 50 infected individuals would die from the virus and its complications.
From this perspective, it is understandable why the LCS is reacting in this way and wants to limit the contact between professionals and fans. This is to better protect everyone from the spread of the virus.
What do you think about the measures taken by the LCS? An exaggerated thing? Or just right to better protect both fans and players?
The virus has also caused a queasy feeling for our author Schuhmann – however, in the context of another game:
