Riot Games gave a new update on this year's MSI.

We’re getting close to the date, if not past it in which we’d expect to hear where the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI) will be held. As time has gone on without any news on the matter, it started to look like the recent Corona Virus outbreak might be having an impact on the announcement.

MSI Update

Riot Games has this evening posted an update on MSI and the reason for the delayed announcement.

Speaking about the delay, John Needham, Global Head of Esports for Riot Games had this to say.

“I know many of you are waiting for the details of the 2020 Mid-Season Invitational — and we are eager to share them. However, as countries around the world respond to COVID-19, aka the Corona Virus, we’ve had to adjust our plans and delay announcing the timing and location of MSI 2020. While we remain committed to making the event happen, the health and safety of players and fans comes first and foremost, with the integrity of the competition a close second."

He continued by thanking fans for their patience. "

The Mid-Season Invitational is a showcase of the best teams in our sports, and our goal is to meet your expectations of a globally inclusive tournament that sees the participation of all our leagues. I want to thank our fans, teams, partners, and players for your patience while we continue planning the event.”

While it might be easy to speculate that the event was due to be held in Asia, given the delays to the LCK, LPL and the Asian Overwatch League Homestand events. Recent cancelations at the Game Developers Conference (GDC) 2020, which takes place in San Francisco, USA shows that the fear outside of Asia is very real.

At this point, given what John Needham has said above — most fans would probably want the event to take place in the safest way possible. While it might be disappointing at the moment, it surely serves the best interest of everyone involved.