Chess is an eSport Now

Chess Makes Historic Esports Debut at EWC 2025

The Esports World Cup (EWC) 2025 tournament is set to feature a surprising new contender: chess! This ancient game joins the ranks of esports in a groundbreaking partnership. Discover why this millennia-old strategy game is taking the esports world by storm.

Chess: A Royal Game in the Esports Spotlight

The prestigious EWC, the world's largest gaming and esports festival, will host competitive chess for the very first time. A significant collaboration between Chess.com, Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, and the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) makes this historic inclusion possible, bringing chess to a wider audience.

EWCF CEO Ralf Reichert expressed excitement, calling chess "the ultimate strategy game" and highlighting its perfect fit within the EWC's mission to unite global gaming communities.

Retired world champion and current world number one, GM Magnus Carlsen, will serve as an ambassador, aiming to connect chess with a broader fanbase. He enthusiastically stated, "This partnership is a fantastic opportunity to grow the game, introducing chess to new audiences and inspiring future players."

Riyadh 2025: A $1.5 Million Showdown

The EWC will be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from July 31st to August 3rd, 2025, featuring top chess players vying for a massive $1.5 million prize pool. Qualification involves competing 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 battle for a $300,000 prize pool and a spot in the EWC, marking chess's inaugural esports appearance.

To attract a wider esports audience, the 2025 CCT will use a fast-paced 10-minute time control format (no increment), with Armageddon tiebreakers.

Chess, originating in ancient India over 1500 years ago, has evolved across generations. Its digital adaptation through platforms like Chess.com and its subsequent entry into esports have broadened its appeal, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The game's popularity has also been boosted by streaming platforms, influencers, and shows like "The Queen's Gambit."

With its official esports designation, chess is poised for even greater growth and engagement.