India’s chess prodigies, Nihal Sarin and Aravindh Chithambaram, will compete for Team S8UL at the Esports World Cup 2025 in Riyadh. This marks a historic moment for chess, as the game debuts in this global esports spectacle from July 7 to August 24. Fans can expect thrilling matches, with these grandmasters showcasing India’s chess prowess on a digital stage.
Nihal Sarin and Aravindh: India’s Chess Powerhouses
Nihal Sarin, ranked 8th in India and 40th globally, brings lightning-fast calculation skills. Aravindh Chithambaram, India’s 4th and world’s 11th, excels in dynamic play. Both represent Team S8UL, a leading esports organization embracing chess. “This is a game-changer for Indian chess,” Nihal said in a recent interview. Aravindh added, “Competing in esports feels like a new era.” Their participation highlights chess’s growing appeal in the digital realm.
Team S8UL’s bold move to field chess players signals a shift. Esports organizations now recognize chess’s potential to captivate audiences. For instance, Arjun Erigaisi, another Indian grandmaster, joined Gen.G, setting a precedent. With Nihal and Aravindh, S8UL aims to dominate the Esports World Cup’s chess event.
Also Read: Chess Esports at the Esports World Cup 2025: Everything You Need to Know
A Historic Debut for Chess
The Esports World Cup 2025 introduces chess for the first time, drawing top talent. Magnus Carlsen and Fabiano Caruana will play for Team Liquid. Hikaru Nakamura and Alireza Firouzja join Team Falcons. Ian Nepomniachtchi represents Team Aurora, while Ding Liren competes for Team LGD. These global stars elevate the event’s prestige.
Players qualify through the Champions Chess Tour (CCT) 2025, featuring online events in February and May. The top 12 players advance directly. Four additional spots come from a Last Chance Qualifier in Riyadh. In total, 16 players will battle in a rapid 10+0 format—10 minutes per player, no increment. This setup ensures fast-paced, viewer-friendly matches while preserving strategic depth.
Chess’s inclusion reflects its rising status as a spectator sport. Platforms like Chess.com and Twitch report millions of viewers for online tournaments. The Esports World Cup, backed by Saudi Arabia’s $60 million prize pool, amplifies this trend. Fans can watch Nihal Sarin and Aravindh compete live, blending traditional chess with esports energy.
Also Read: Chess and Esports Arena: A Match Made for Millions
