Key facts
- The fourth season of the Global Chess League (GCL) will be hosted in Bengaluru.
- The event is scheduled to commence on September 3.
- The GCL is a collaborative effort between Tech Mahindra and FIDE.
- The league has previously introduced formats such as franchise teams, mixed-gender lineups, and rapid-fire matches.
- Gourav Rakshit, Commissioner of the GCL, emphasized the league's goal to make chess a global spectator sport.
- FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich highlighted Bengaluru as an ideal location due to India's prominence in chess.
The Global Chess League (GCL) has announced that its fourth season will be hosted in Bengaluru, India, commencing on September 3. This event is a joint initiative between Tech Mahindra and the International Chess Federation (FIDE).
The GCL has previously implemented innovative formats, including franchise teams, mixed-gender lineups, and rapid-fire matches, aiming to enhance chess as a spectator sport. Gourav Rakshit, Commissioner of the Global Chess League, expressed enthusiasm for bringing the season to Bengaluru, viewing it as a significant moment for the game's evolution.
FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich echoed this sentiment, stating that India's strong chess presence makes Bengaluru a fitting location. He anticipates an exciting season that will unite top players and further engage fans in India and globally. Past participants in the league include prominent Indian chess players such as R Praggnanandhaa, D Gukesh, and Viswanathan Anand.