The Grand Chess Tour Rapid and Blitz Poland 2025 kicks off in Warsaw, promising electrifying speed chess action. From April 26 to April 30, ten elite players, including India’s R Praggnanandhaa, compete for a $175,000 prize fund. This guide covers the format, schedule, key players, and live streaming details. Don’t miss the thrilling battles at the Museum of the History of Polish Jews.
Event Format and Schedule
The tournament spans five days with nine rapid rounds and eighteen blitz rounds, totaling 135 games. Rapid games, played from April 26 to 28, feature 25 minutes per player with a 10-second increment per move. Blitz games, set for April 29 and 30, allow 5 minutes per player with a 3-second increment. The rapid section awards double points compared to blitz, shaping the race for the title. “This format tests both precision and nerves,” says Grandmaster Yasser Seirawan.
Key Players and Indian Stars
Five tour players—Alireza Firouzja, Maxime Vachier-Lagrave, Levon Aronian, Veselin Topalov, and Duda Jan-Krzysztof—join five wildcards, including R Praggnanandhaa and Aravindh Chithambaram. Praggnanandhaa, a speed chess prodigy, has defeated Magnus Carlsen multiple times. “Pragg’s accuracy is phenomenal,” notes commentator Peter Svidler. Aravindh, fresh off his Prague Masters victory, earned his wildcard spot. Without Carlsen, who now focuses on Freestyle Chess, Firouzja and Duda emerge as top contenders. However, Praggnanandhaa’s Tata Steel Masters win earlier this year makes him a fan favorite.
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Live Streaming and How to Watch
Catch every move live on the Saint Louis Chess Club’s YouTube and Twitch channels. Expert commentary from Grandmasters Yasser Seirawan, Maurice Ashley, and Peter Svidler, alongside IM Nazi Paikidze and WGM Anastasia Karlovich, enhances the experience. The event runs from April 26 to April 30 at the Museum of the History of Polish Jews.
Join the global chess community and witness Praggnanandhaa and others battle for glory in the Grand Chess Tour Rapid and Blitz Poland 2025. Stream it live and cheer for your favorites!
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