Chess Makes its Esports Debut at the 2025 Esports World Cup!
The ancient game of chess is making headlines as a new addition to the 2025 Esports World Cup (EWC), the world's premier gaming and esports festival. This unprecedented move, a result of a significant partnership between Chess.com, Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, and the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF), marks a pivotal moment for chess, bringing this classic strategy game to a wider, global audience.
A Historic Partnership Ushers in a New Era for Chess
EWCF CEO Ralf Reichert hailed chess as "the mother of all strategy games," expressing his excitement about its inclusion in the EWC. He emphasized chess's historical significance, global reach, and vibrant competitive scene as key factors aligning perfectly with the EWC's mission to unite popular games and their communities.World champion and top-ranked player Magnus Carlsen will serve as an ambassador, aiming to connect chess with a broader audience. Carlsen expressed his enthusiasm, highlighting the opportunity to introduce chess to new players and inspire future generations.
Riyadh 2025: A $1.5 Million Showdown
The EWC 2025, taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from July 31st to August 3rd, will feature a $1.5 million prize pool. To qualify, players must compete in the 2025 Champions Chess Tour (CCT) 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 spot in the EWC, marking chess's inaugural esports appearance.
To enhance appeal to esports fans, the 2025 CCT will utilize a fast-paced 10-minute time control format for matches, with Armageddon tiebreakers.
From its ancient Indian origins to its modern digital presence on platforms like Chess.com, chess has captivated players for centuries. The rise of online chess, amplified by streaming, influencers, and popular culture (like The Queen's Gambit), has broadened its reach significantly. Now, its official recognition as an esport promises to attract even more players and enthusiasts to this timeless game.
