Chess is poised to make a significant impact at the Esports World Cup (EWC) 2025, marking a historic convergence of traditional strategy and modern competitive gaming. The inclusion of chess in the EWC lineup signifies a major step in bridging the gap between the classic and digital sports realms.
A Grand Debut
The Esports World Cup, an annual international tournament series, is expanding its horizons to include chess in its 2025 edition. This event, organized by the Esports World Cup Foundation, is considered the world's largest professional esports event, both financially and in terms of the variety of games featured. The EWC 2025 is slated to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from July 8 to August 24, with the chess portion running from July 29 to August 1.
Massive Prize Pool and Top Talent
The chess tournament at the EWC 2025 boasts a substantial $1.5 million prize pool, attracting some of the world's top chess players. This significant financial incentive has spurred prominent esports organizations to sign grandmasters to their rosters. The inclusion of chess aligns with the EWC's mission to unite the world's most popular games under one banner, promoting cross-game competition and innovation within the esports ecosystem.
Magnus Carlsen as Ambassador
Adding further prestige to the event, Norwegian Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen has been appointed as the official chess ambassador of the Esports World Cup. Carlsen's involvement underscores the significance of chess's integration into the esports world and is expected to draw even more attention to the tournament.
Qualification and Format
Players can qualify for the EWC chess tournament through the Champions Chess Tour (CCT). The top 12 players from the CCT receive invitations, with additional spots available through a "Last Chance Qualifier" held in Riyadh. The tournament format includes a group stage followed by a single-elimination bracket. Matches will be played with a time control of 10 minutes for the entire game, and tiebreakers will be decided by a single Armageddon game. In the initial phase, competitors are divided into four groups of four, with the top two from each group advancing to the playoffs.
Esports Teams Embrace Chess
Esports organizations have eagerly embraced chess, with many signing top grandmasters to represent them. Noteworthy teams and players include:
A Diverse Gaming Lineup
Chess is one of 25 titles to be contested at the Esports World Cup 2025. The lineup includes popular games such as:
The Road Ahead
The inclusion of chess in the Esports World Cup 2025 marks a significant milestone for the game, exposing it to a new audience and solidifying its place in the world of competitive gaming. With a substantial prize pool, top-tier talent, and a well-structured tournament format, chess is set to make a lasting impression at the EWC. The event promises intense rivalry and strategic gameplay, showcasing the brilliance of grandmasters on a global stage.
