The Chinese League of Legends Pro League (LPL) is reportedly not going to have an English broadcast for the 2024 season, as revealed by former caster and personality Christopher “MonteCristo” Mykles. He shared this information on November 18, just hours before the Worlds 2023 grand final in Seoul, South Korea. According to MonteCristo, the existing production has been canceled, and Riot Games has not yet arranged a replacement broadcast, potentially leaving English-speaking fans in the dark just months before the next season.
MonteCristo suggested that Riot’s Stryker facility in Dublin, announced in 2021, may handle coverage remotely in the future. However, with only a few months before the 2024 season begins, there might not be enough time to implement a solution unless Riot has been actively working on one in the interim.
MonteCristo, who provided English coverage and commentary for the LCK alongside casting partner Erik “DoA” Lonnquist in the mid-to-late 2010s, emphasized the significance of an English broadcast for Eastern League regions. He expressed disappointment in the situation, acknowledging that it is not Riot’s fault but rather a decision made by the Chinese stakeholders at the LPL.
Freelance color caster Alex “Nymaera” Hapgood, who worked for the LPL English broadcast team this year, shared further insights on the unexpected announcement. Nymaera mentioned that while the workload during the LPL Summer Split was intense, they were content with the broadcast. The sudden news has come as a shock, and Nymaera hopes for an opportunity to showcase their effort and passion in some form in the upcoming year.
The news has left fans and players displeased, particularly since it coincides with the Worlds 2023 Championship Sunday. LPL’s Weibo Gaming faced off against hometown favorites T1 at the Gocheok Sky Dome. The potential loss of English coverage for one of the world’s top leagues could be devastating for the esports scene and its community.
This development adds to the challenges faced on Worlds 2023 finals day, with rumors circulating that the LCS is reportedly downsizing for the next year. The hope is for a resolution to be found before the Spring Split begins in early 2024, especially for LPL fans.