Chess Makes its Esports Debut at the 2025 Esports World Cup!
The ancient game of chess is stepping into the modern world of esports. The 2025 Esports World Cup (EWC), the world's largest gaming and esports festival, will feature chess as a competitive esport for the first time ever. This landmark decision is the result of a major collaboration between Chess.com, chess Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, and the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF). This partnership aims to introduce the classic strategy game to a broader, more global audience.
EWCF CEO Ralf Reichert hailed chess as "the mother of all strategy games," expressing excitement about its inclusion in the EWC. He highlighted chess's rich history, widespread appeal, and thriving competitive scene as key factors in its selection.
Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, a retired world champion and current world number one, will serve as an ambassador for the event, aiming to connect chess with a new generation of fans. He expressed his enthusiasm for this opportunity to expand the game's reach and inspire future players.
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Hosts the Chess Showdown
The EWC 2025 will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from July 31st to August 3rd, 2025. Top chess players from around the world will compete for a substantial $1.5 million USD prize pool. Qualification for the EWC will be determined through the 2025 Champions Chess Tour (CCT), held in February and May. The top 12 players from the CCT, along with four additional players from a "Last Chance Qualifier," will battle it out for a $300,000 USD prize pool and a coveted spot in the EWC, marking chess's historic entry into the esports arena.
To attract a wider audience, especially esports enthusiasts, the 2025 CCT will feature a modified match format. Instead of the traditional 90-minute time control, matches will use a 10-minute time control with no increment. Tiebreakers will be decided by a single Armageddon game.
Chess, originating in ancient India over 1500 years ago, has captivated players for centuries. Its transition to the digital world, facilitated by platforms like Chess.com, and its subsequent embrace by the esports community have significantly broadened its accessibility, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Popular media, including streaming platforms, influencers, and shows like "The Queen's Gambit," have also contributed to its growing popularity.
With its official recognition as an esport, chess is poised for even greater growth and global appeal.
