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2026
Aug 11 - Aug 15, 2026
Chess is coming to the Esports World Cup 2026 after debuting at EWC 2025, where Magnus Carlsen, competing under Team Liquid, claimed the inaugural title. His victory helped establish chess as a natural fit on the EWC stage, blending classical mastery with modern esports competition.
$1,500,000
Prize Pool
BUY TICKETS
Participating Players
More slots to be announced!
Road to EWC 2026 - Qualifiers
About
Chess grand masters earn their title for life after years of dedication to the game, outplaying opponents by thinking multiple steps ahead and adapting strategies as matches unfold. What began as a traditional contest of intellect has evolved into a certified esport, with the competitive scene gaining global momentum in 2020 and bringing high stakes, emotion, and drama to audiences around the world.
Each match begins on equal footing, with both players controlling identical pieces, each defined by its own movement and unified by a single objective: protect the King. Turn by turn, players maneuver to corner their opponent’s King while anticipating every possible counter, creating a tense contest of precision and foresight. Chess at EWC 25 led to the pairing of the world’s best grandmasters with premier esports organizations, setting the stage for unmatched intensity and rivalry.
News
2026
Nongshim RedForce brings home VCT Masters Santiago trophy
Nongshim RedForce dominated VCT Masters Santiago, sweeping Paper Rex 3-0 in the Grand Final at Espacio Riesco in Santiago, Chile. The victory earned them the $350,000 top prize and 6 VCT Points, placing them among the top teams in the current VALORANT field.
2026
Road to EWC: February 2026
February pushed the Road to EWC forward, delivering key results and shaping the competitive landscape for the season ahead. FaZe Clan claimed the Six Invitational trophy in Rainbow Six Siege, Team Vitality expanded into PUBG and Crossfire, and major qualifiers were confirmed, giving Clubs and players clear opportunities to secure their spot in Riyadh.
2026
Road to EWC Qualifiers at DreamHack Birmingham
Cheer from the audience stands and support your favorite players as they fight for a spot at EWC 2026.
2026
FaZe Clan takes the Six Invitational trophy home from Paris
The team made up of Brazilian powerhouses closes out Team Spirit 3-1 in the Six Invitational Grand Final at the Adidas Arena.
