Chess is an eSport Now

Chess Makes its Esports Debut at the 2025 Esports World Cup!

The ancient game of chess is making headlines—it's officially an esport! The 2025 Esports World Cup (EWC), the world's largest gaming and esports festival, has announced chess as a featured competition. This groundbreaking move is a result of a major collaboration between Chess.com, chess Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, and the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF).

EWCF CEO Ralf Reichert hailed chess as "the mother of all strategy games," expressing excitement about its inclusion. He emphasized chess's global appeal and vibrant competitive scene as a perfect fit for the EWC's mission to unite gaming communities worldwide.

Chess legend Magnus Carlsen, a retired world champion and current world number one, will serve as an ambassador, aiming to introduce chess to a wider audience and inspire a new generation of players. He expressed his enthusiasm about chess joining other leading esports titles at the EWC.

Riyadh 2025: A $1.5 Million Showdown

The EWC chess competition will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from July 31st to August 3rd, 2025, boasting a massive $1.5 million prize pool. To qualify, players must excel in the 2025 Champions Chess Tour (CCT), held in February and May. The top 12 CCT players, along with four from a "Last Chance Qualifier," will vie for a $300,000 prize pool and a coveted spot in the EWC's inaugural chess event.

The CCT will feature a fast-paced 10-minute time control format to attract esports enthusiasts, departing from the traditional longer time controls of world championships. Tiebreakers will be decided by a single Armageddon game.

Chess, with roots tracing back 1500 years to ancient India, has evolved into a globally beloved pastime. Its digital adaptation, particularly through platforms like Chess.com, and the rise of esports have broadened its accessibility, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Popular media, including streaming, influencers, and shows like The Queen's Gambit, have further propelled its popularity.

This official recognition as an esport promises to attract even more players and fans to the timeless game of chess.