Where The International 2023 will be held. TI12 location announcement

TL;DR

  • Seattle emerges as primary candidate for TI12 after four-year global tour
  • Voice actor John Patrick Lowrie leaked Seattle location before retracting statement
  • South America gains consideration due to region’s competitive Dota growth
  • Valve typically announces TI locations 5-6 months before event
  • Historical data shows Seattle hosted 7 of 11 International tournaments

Games and Esports Articles Dota 2

Following The International 2022 conclusion, Dota 2 enthusiasts eagerly anticipate where Valve will stage the next championship. The location announcement timing remains uncertain, though historical patterns suggest it may not occur during finals weekend as many expect.

Multiple insider reports indicate the premier competition will likely return to Seattle after its four-year global journey. Community expectations for a TI11 venue reveal went unfulfilled, mirroring Valve’s delayed communication approach from previous cycles. For reference, the company didn’t confirm TI11’s Singapore location until May 2022.

MATUMBAMAN on the match against Thunder Awaken: “After the game one I really felt bad. Why am I doing this to my team? Am I not strong-willed enough?”
MATUMBAMAN on the match against Thunder Awaken: “After the game one I really felt bad. Why am I doing this to my team? Am I not strong-willed enough?”

In February, veteran voice actor John Patrick Lowrie fueled Seattle speculation during his Lima Major production announcement. He stated teams were competing for qualification to The International scheduled for Seattle in October, though he promptly removed this detail afterward. Lowrie’s credibility stems from voicing multiple Dota 2 characters and serving as official TI event announcer, lending weight to his potential insider knowledge despite the retraction.

Beyond Seattle, South America presents a compelling alternative venue given the region’s competitive surge. Despite organizational challenges during the Lima Major, Valve possesses the infrastructure to surpass previous tournament organizers’ performances. The company’s decision to host CS:GO events in Rio establishes precedent for supporting emerging gaming regions.

The preceding championship, The International 2021, occurred in Europe following venue changes. Originally planned for Stockholm, pandemic restrictions and Swedish political complications forced Valve and PGL to relocate to Bucharest, demonstrating adaptability in venue selection.

Valve confirms when Diretide will start in Dota 2 with an event trailer
Valve confirms when Diretide will start in Dota 2 with an event trailer

The Seattle speculation gained substantial credibility through John Patrick Lowrie’s inadvertent disclosure. As the iconic voice behind TI player introductions and multiple hero voice lines, his production role provides legitimate access to preliminary event details. The swift retraction suggests either premature information release or genuine error, though his track record lends credence to the initial statement.

South America’s competitive landscape has transformed dramatically, with teams from the region consistently achieving top placements in recent international competitions. This competitive rise, combined with passionate fan bases in countries like Peru and Brazil, creates compelling arguments for hosting TI in the region. Valve’s demonstrated commitment to global Dota expansion through regional DPC leagues further supports this possibility.

When evaluating potential venues, Valve considers multiple factors beyond competitive scenes. Infrastructure requirements include arena capacity for 15,000+ spectators, reliable internet connectivity for professional gameplay, and accommodation for 18 competing teams. The company also weighs visa accessibility for international participants and time zone suitability for global viewership.

Historical announcement patterns reveal Valve typically confirms TI locations 5-6 months pre-event. This timeline allows adequate preparation for qualified teams while maintaining suspense around the championship location. The pattern held true for both TI11 (May 2022 announcement) and TI10 (May 2021 confirmation).

Last TI event locations:

  • The International 2022 — Singapore
  • The International 2021 — Romania, Bucharest
  • The International 2019 — China, Shanghai
  • The International 2018 — Canada, Vancouver
  • The International 2017 — Seattle, USA (Key Arena)
  • The International 2016 — Seattle, USA (Key Arena)
  • The International 2015 — Seattle, USA (Key Arena)
  • The International 2014 — Seattle, USA (Key Arena)
  • The International 2013 — Seattle, USA
  • The International 2012 — Seattle, USA
  • The International 2011 — Cologne, Germany

Seattle’s dominance as TI host is undeniable, with seven of eleven tournaments staged in the city. The Key Arena (now Climate Pledge Arena) served as primary venue during 2014-2017, establishing it as Dota 2’s spiritual home. The venue’s $1 billion renovation completed in 2021 restored its suitability for major esports events.

The global expansion beginning with Vancouver in 2018 marked strategic efforts to grow Dota’s international footprint. Shanghai’s 2019 hosting signaled Valve’s commitment to Chinese markets, while Bucharest and Singapore represented pandemic-era adaptations. This rotation strategy balanced tradition with global accessibility.

When planning attendance, consider that North American venues typically offer better visa access for international travelers. European locations provide central time zones for global broadcasts, while Asian hosts cater to massive local audiences. Each region presents unique advantages for players and spectators alike.

Action Checklist

  • Monitor official Valve announcements typically released May-June
  • Research visa requirements for potential host countries 3 months pre-event
  • Evaluate accommodation options near suspected venues once rumors solidify
  • Analyze time zone differences for optimal viewing if attending remotely
  • Join community discussions on regional Dota forums for latest leaks

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