The world’s biggest esports tournament in terms of prizepool, The International (TI) 10, has failed to get classification as “elite sporting event” in Sweden, forcing it to look elsewhere for a new host country. 

Valve, the company behind the said Dota 2 tournament, made the announcement on its site on Tuesday, June 22. The classification ensured that participants will be able to enter the country given COVID-19 restrictions. 

“With the Minister of the Interior failing to recognize The International-Dota 2 Championships as an elite sporting event, anyone attempting to procure a visa for travel into Sweden for TI10 (including players, talent, and staff) would be denied.

The absence of this official recognition also means individual border agents would be making decisions about entry for those traveling to the event from countries outside the EU who do not typically need a visa to enter Sweden,” Valve explained. 

The company was informed two weeks ago about the Swedish Sports Federation’s decision. It said that it had appealed to the government, but no resolution has been achieved. Valve now is currently looking for other locations in Europe to host the event.  

“We remain committed to hosting The International this year in a way that is both safe for all involved, and properly celebrates the players and fans of Dota 2.  We will be communicating what we find out as soon as we are able,” the company said. 

Twelve teams have already qualified through points earned in the Dota 2 pro circuit, including three Filipino players, T1’s Carlos Palad and Karl Baldovino, and Evil Geniuses’ Abed Yusop. An additional six teams are vying to qualify to the $40-million contest through regional qualifiers beginning on June 23. The main event takes place from August 5 to 15. – Rappler.com