Riot Games published a press release stating that while the event’s attendance would be restricted, they are confident in their ability to safely arrange one with a live audience. We are finally convinced that we can provide a safe setting for our fans to celebrate the Spring 2022 Finals in a one-time event, even if we are still constantly monitoring the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak. We are limiting attendance to ensure the highest level of safety.
Fans were quick to point out they were disappointed only the grand final would feature a live audience and they didn’t do it for the playoffs. According to Riot, this is due to safety concerns. “Safety is still our number one priority, so we are taking small, incremental steps to ensure that the reintegration of our much missed audience happens as smoothly as possible. Bringing fans back to the studio in a controlled manner has required a lot of planning and the 2022 LEC Spring Season Finals is the first opportunity we have to allow us to do this safely.”
The first weekend of playoff action is currently already over. Rogue beat out Misfits Gaming while Fnatic beat G2 Esports, both with 3-1. In the losers’ bracket Vitality eliminated Excel after a 3-2 Thriller. Up next G2 will be taking on Vitality, with the winner taking on Misfits, while Rogue and Fnatic duke it out in the semifinals.