Chess debuts at the Esports World Cup 2025 in Riyadh, sparking excitement but also tension with FIDE. The Lausanne-based governing body remains cautious about this bold move. Top players like Magnus Carlsen and Hikaru Nakamura will compete, drawing global attention. Yet, FIDE’s neutrality hints at underlying concerns about its authority.
Chess’ Big Leap into Esports World Cup 2025
The Esports World Cup, running from July to August in Riyadh, expands its roster with chess. Unlike last year’s lineup of Call of Duty and Fortnite, chess brings a 1,500-year-old game to the digital stage. The event offers a $1.5 million prize pool and a 10-minute time control. “Chess fits perfectly with esports’ young, tech-savvy audience,” says Ralf Reich, a Freestyle Chess organizer. World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen, No. 2 Hikaru Nakamura, and India’s No. 4 Arjun Erigaisi will battle under esports banners like Gen.G. This move amplifies online chess’ reach, especially among younger fans.
Also Read: Grand Chess Tour 2025: Poland’s Rapid and Blitz Battle Unveiled
Why FIDE Might Oppose Chess’ Esports Inclusion
FIDE’s silence on the Esports World Cup speaks volumes. The organization fiercely guards its control over chess’ global narrative. Its recent clash with Freestyle Chess over the “World Championship” title shows FIDE’s sensitivity to external tournaments. “FIDE sees any non-sanctioned event as a challenge,” notes chess analyst Susan Polgar. The Esports World Cup, with players representing esports organizations rather than nations, operates outside FIDE’s framework. If the event gains traction, it could rival FIDE’s influence, especially as Freestyle Chess already steals headlines. FIDE’s past disputes, like the 1990s Professional Chess Association feud, underline its wariness. The Esports World Cup’s massive youth following only heightens FIDE’s concerns about losing ground.
Also Read: What Stops Indian Grandmasters from Excelling in Freestyle Chess?
