PC giant Valve has started refunding tickets for the upcoming Dota 2 tournament The International.

In a post on the game's website, the firm said that it was giving consumers back their money due to rising COVID-19 coronavirus cases in Bucharest, Romania, where the event was set to take place. The tournament is still set to go ahead, just without a live audience as anticipated.

"To ensure the safety of all players, talent, and production staff participating in the event, we have decided to refund all ticket sales for The International 2021," Valve wrote.

"We wanted nothing more than to welcome fans live to the event, but we can no longer do so in a way that allows us to prioritise the health and well-being of both audience members and participants. Those who purchased tickets will be issued a full refund automatically."

The International 2021 found its home in Romania in July of this year, having previously been pencilled to take place in the Swedish capital of Stockholm previously.

The event is still taking place between October 7th and 17th.