Chess Makes its Esports Debut at the 2025 Esports World Cup!
The ancient game of chess is stepping onto the esports stage! The 2025 Esports World Cup (EWC), the world's premier gaming and esports festival, has announced chess as a featured esport. This groundbreaking move, a result of a major partnership between Chess.com, Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, and the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF), will introduce this classic strategy game to a global esports audience.
A Historic Partnership Crowns Chess an Esport
EWCF CEO Ralf Reichert hailed chess as "the mother of all strategy games," expressing excitement about its inclusion. He emphasized chess's historical significance, global appeal, and vibrant competitive scene as perfect attributes for the EWC's mission to unite diverse gaming communities.World champion and top-ranked player Magnus Carlsen will serve as an ambassador, aiming to broaden chess's reach and inspire new players. Carlsen expressed his enthusiasm for this opportunity to showcase chess alongside other major esports titles.
Riyadh Hosts the $1.5 Million Chess Showdown
The EWC chess competition will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from July 31st to August 3rd, 2025. A substantial $1.5 million prize pool is up for grabs. Qualification will be determined through 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 compete for a $300,000 prize pool and a spot in the EWC.
To enhance the esports appeal, the CCT will feature a faster 10-minute time control per game, replacing the traditional 90-minute format. Armageddon tiebreakers will be used.
Chess, with roots tracing back 1500 years to ancient India, has transitioned from a tabletop pastime to a digital phenomenon thanks to platforms like Chess.com. The pandemic further boosted its popularity, with streaming, influencers, and shows like "The Queen's Gambit" expanding its reach. Its official recognition as an esport promises to attract even more players and fans.
