Counter-Strike: Global Offensive tournament, IEM Katowice, was barred from hosting a live audience, leaving the teams to compete in an eerily silent stadium. IEM Katowice is one of IEM's world-renowned competitive tournaments. Furthermore, IEM tournaments are by far some of the more highly anticipated non-Major competitions. This week, sixteen of the most talented CSGO teams met in Katowice, Poland, to face off for a piece of the $500 thousand prize pool.
While IEM Katowice, is one of the recently affected tournaments, CSGO isn't the only community affected by the coronavirus outbreak. January 2020, brought announcements that Blizzard's Overwatch League canceled professional Overwatch matches and events in China because of the virus. Likewise, the gaming hardware industry has taken a deep cut. For instance, reports stated delays to the highly anticipated Playstation5 and Xbox Series X were expected because the majority of manufacturing takes place in China.
Related: GDC 2020 Vs. Coronavirus: Game Developers Conference Officials Postponed
According to EuroGamer, Spodek Arena remained mysteriously quiet as the teams continued to play without a crowd. The on-stage portion of the tournament started Friday, February 28. Typically, images of competing teams would be seen completely engulfed in an excited crowd; however, the live Twitch broadcasts show otherwise. Legendary French player Kenny "kennyS" Schrub was seen casually standing beside his teammate, gazing upon an empty crowd. Missing in the background is the support of passionate fans, cheering their favorite teams on. Rather than showy transition scenes of an excited audience, the camera now focuses solely on the stage, who's extravagant light show is exclusively for the online observer.
Days prior, ESL had released statements regarding their stance on the safety and health of those attending. February 26, 2020, brought a press release from IEM stating the organization was implementing mandatory health screenings for all players, attendees, staff, and special guests. Additionally, medical professionals were to be made available, as well as sanitation stations and first aid patrols. Furthermore, the medical staff was reportedly set to educate the public on proper hygiene techniques.
Despite their efforts, Polish officials deemed the event a significant medical risk. ESL respects the decision made and agrees with their sentiment that the health of the general public should be the number one priority. Players spoke out with heavy hearts but also stood by the final decision. Counter-Strike: Global Offensive IEM Katowice 2020 grand finals take place on March 1 and can be viewed online at Twitch.tv.