Team Liquid closes esports HQ due to coronavirus outbreak

Olivia Richman Published 13/03/2020

Los Angeles-based esports organization Team Liquid has stated that its facilities will be closed for the next 30 days and remain closed until further notice. Neither organization staff nor members of Team Liquid’s pro teams will be allowed into the facility.

Founder Steve Arhancet announced the decision on Twitter, stating that it was their way of prioritizing the health and safety of their staff and players. While their teams will still compete wherever possible, they noted that it will be with be done with extreme caution.

Arhancet also reminded fans to take care of themselves during the coronavirus outbreak.

“We are hopeful that this will be a temporary and short-term arrangement, during which time we will monitor guidance from health officials and the need for remote work arrangements, and re-evaluate any additional measures needed as the situation progresses,” a letter to employees read.

Despite the pandemic, Team Liquid is hoping to maintain “business as usual.”

As schools and public events continue to be shut down due to the coronavirus threat, it’s possible that more organizations around the globe will follow their lead in the coming weeks. While it’s a commendable move in that regard, the lack of a training facility for scrims has fans worried about Team Liquid’s performance in the LCS. They are currently sitting at a 6-9 record and today are outside playoff qualification.

Riot Games recently announced that the LCS will be continuing, but no more press or live audiences will be permitted in the LCS Arena in Santa Monica.

Coronavirus affects esports around the world

This isn’t the first disruption to League of Legends esports after the coronovirus has continued to spread. The 2020 Mid-Season Invitational was postponed until the summer with no location announced as of yet. The LEC is closed to the public. The LCK was indefinitely delayed after initially not allowing public access to the weekly matches. The LPL is currently holding matches online after a long delay.

Other esports events have been affected due to American president Donald Trump’s 30-day travel restrictions between the US and EU. This caused a major disruption in Dota 2, with the postponing of the ESL One Los Angeles Major.

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive is not immune either. ESL currently is making backup plans for the Rio Major as the coronavirus continues to threaten people’s health and cause panic.

Olivia Richman

About Olivia Richman

Olivia has worked in media ever since graduating from college, with her coverage ranging from traditional newspaper reporting to digital coverage of all things gaming, online betting, and nerd culture. She has traveled around the world pursuing that coverage, from the far coasts of the United States to the busy downtown core of Tokyo, Japan. Olivia’s favorite games include Overwatch and Super Smash Smash Bros, and she has been published at Esports Illustrated, Inven Global, EsportsInsider, Upcomer, and elsewhere.

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