League of Legends Worlds 2021 returns to China with Shenzhen hosting the Grand Finals
Worlds 2021 Location Announcement
The 2021 League of Legends World Championship marks China’s third time hosting the premier esports event, with Shenzhen’s Universiade Center Arena selected for the climactic Grand Finals. This coastal metropolis, home to LPL’s Victory Five, becomes the newest Chinese city to host Worlds after Shanghai’s 2020 tournament.
Riot Games confirms China will host Worlds for consecutive years, compensating for 2020’s limited spectator access. The decision shifts from North America’s planned 2021 hosting, now rescheduled for 2022 following July’s announcement.
Shenzhen’s selection continues Riot’s strategy of rotating host cities, offering first-time exposure for this technology hub. The 60,000-capacity venue sets the stage for what developers hope will be a full-capacity finale, contrasting with 2020’s 6,000-spectator restriction at Shanghai’s Pudong Football Stadium.
Tournament Structure Updates
The 2021 championship revives the multi-city tour format, pending global health conditions. While traditional four-stage progression (Play-Ins, Groups, Knockouts, Finals) remains, Riot hasn’t finalized which Chinese cities will host preliminary rounds. Esports analysts suggest Wuhan, Chengdu, and Hangzhou as potential candidates based on infrastructure and past esports events.
Riot’s official tweet highlighted Shenzhen’s selection: “An exciting new city for the next chapter of LoL Esports. See you in Shenzhen, the host city for #Worlds2021 Finals!” The January 8 announcement included concept art of the transformed stadium.
Tournament scheduling follows the traditional October-November window, though exact dates await confirmation. Teams should prepare for potential health protocols, including the ‘bubble’ system that limited player movement during 2020’s competition.
Competitive Landscape
DAMWON Gaming’s dominant 2020 victory may reshape regional allocations, with Korea likely earning a fourth seed through the performance-based seeding system. This follows historical precedent where strong regional showings increase subsequent year’s representation.
The 24-team format remains unchanged, featuring representatives from 12 competitive regions. Chinese teams enter as favorites on home soil, seeking to reclaim the Summoner’s Cup after FunPlus Phoenix’s 2019 victory. Analysts anticipate particularly strong showings from Top Esports and JD Gaming, both having deep tournament experience.
No reproduction without permission：SeeYouSoon Game Club » League Worlds 2021 returns to China with Shenzhen final, multi-city tour League of Legends Worlds 2021 returns to China with Shenzhen hosting the Grand Finals