MSI could return to China for next season

Korean news outlet Naver reported that the League of Legends Mid-Season Invitational 2024 will be held in Chengdu, China, marking the country’s first MSI in eight years.

League of Legends, the global esports phenomenon, has seen its share of unforgettable moments and epic showdowns throughout the years. One recurring theme that stands out in the history of gaming is the dominance displayed by Chinese teams. The latest buzz, in the gaming community has everyone excited as reports emerge about the Mid Season Invitational (MSI) making a return to China in 2024 in Chengdu. While Riot Games has yet to confirm these reports fans are already getting ready for a homecoming.

Chinese fans prepare for celebration as MSI hints at homecoming

The last time China hosted MSI was back in 2016. It took place in none other than the bustling city of Shanghai. It was a tournament that fans look back on where SK Telecom T1, led by the legendary Faker added another trophy to their already impressive collection. They secured their place in history by defeating Royal Never Give Up in a match and then emerging victorious against Counter Logic Gaming (CLG) in the finals. This event not only showcased China’s ability to host supercharged League of Legends events but also highlighted their fierce competition, on an international stage.

The League of Legends Pro League (LPL), which features the top Chinease teams, has maintained a firm grasp on the MSI championship since 2018. While G2 Esports managed to secure the trophy in 2019 the LPL has consistently showcased their dominance at MSI ever since. With the format allowing two representatives from each region to compete, China’s finest have continued to shine on the global stage.

The journey to our first international title was tough, but the feeling of lifting the 🏆 was well worth it!#JDGwin #MSI2023 #Defy pic.twitter.com/n4CHXqu6AO

— JD Gaming (@JDGaming) May 21, 2023

 

During this year’s MSI tournament, all eyes were on JD Gaming (JDG) a renowned Chinese team that displayed their exceptional skills by convincingly defeating Bilibili Gaming (BLG) and securing the championship. Their triumphant performance at MSI 2023 now brings JDG one step closer to achieving the Grand Slam – a dream that could become reality with a victory at the 2023 World Championship. As an added bonus if MSI 2024 takes place in Chengdu as reported by the Korean news outlet, the Chinese team will have support from their home crowd.

As Riot has not announced any details about this rumor, we need to take this report with a pinch of salt. It does seem likely, though, that Riot will return to China for a major League tournament now that travel restrictions have been fully lifted. Riot has avoided China entirely since the pandemic due to tight lockdowns and travel restrictions imposed by the country.

Header: Riot Games