After several teases, ESL Australia in conjunction with TEG has announced the details for the Melbourne Esports Open. The event will play host to the League of Legends Oceanic Pro League (OPL) which was briefly mentioned in our news post as the title was revealed. Melbourne Esports Open has also revealed a multi-year deal for the event with Riot Games to headline the League of Legends OPL Finals until 2022. Home entertainment retailer JB Hi-Fi has also joined the event as the official presenting partner for the next three years.
Daniel Ringland, Head of Oceanic Esports for Riot Games is excited to reveal the news to fans saying:
“The OPL had a stadium Grand Final at Sydney’s Luna Park in 2015 and Brisbane’s Courier Mail Plaza in 2016,” said Ringland.
“However, 2017 lacked a stadium Grand Final which was disappointing to our fans and didn’t reflect the magnitude of the OPL Grand Final, which selects the team who will go on to participate in the largest esports event the world has ever seen – the League of Legends World Championship.
“The Melbourne Esports Open solves for that in a sustainable, annual event and I’m thrilled to be able to deliver our fans a stadium event in Melbourne for the next five years.”
ESL and TEG have also confirmed another finals series of a major game title will be added tomorrow. Judging from the discussion around the community, it’s a potential that Overwatch or Fortnite will make an appearance there. Gamers can also rock up to play in open tournaments will be situated in the Margaret Court Arena during the Melbourne Esports Open, with details to be announced soon.
The Oceanic Pro League Finals will take place at Rod Laver Arena on Sunday 2 September. Tickets to the Melbourne Esports Open are on sale tomorrow Thursday 21 June at 2pm from ticketek.com.au. Prices start at $19.90 for juniors and $29.90 for adults. Family day passes start from $79.70. Tickets are available here.
Melbourne Esports Open Announcement Trailer: