Chess Esports – A New Chapter for the Industry
Following the announcement that chess esports will join the Esports World Cup lineup in the summer, several esports organizations are diving into the scene with new signings. Read on as we discuss the future of chess esports, which is part of the future of the esports industry.
Chess Esports – Early EWC Pickings
At the time of writing, the following esports organizations have signed a professional chess player:
- Gen.G – Arjun Erigaisi
- Misfits Gaming – Hikaru Nakamura
- Team Liquid – Fabiano Caruana
- AG Global – Volodar Murzin
- Team Vitality – Maxime Vachier-Lagrave
Of note, this is not the first time that esports organizations have dived into chess esports, such as back in 2020.
This time around, the intentions of esports organizations are surrounding qualification for the Esports World Cup. Over the next few months, the 2025 Champions Tour determines which players earn a spot at the EWC tournament.
Starting with the Chessable Masters in the coming week, esports organizations are trying to jump in early to sign the best players possible. Specifically, there’s the following season of competition to look forward to for chess esports:
- Chessable Masters – 16-21st February – $150,000
- May Event – 18-23rd May – CCT Points
- Esports World Cup – 31st July-3rd August – $1,500,000
Specifically, the top 12 players from the Champions Chess Tour are joined by 4 players from the Last Chance Qualifier.
Throughout the season, plenty of esports betting odds will be up for stakes.
