Global Chess League Hopes to Make Big Impact on Chess Like IPL Did on Cricket: Arjun Erigaisi

Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi is hopeful that the Global Chess League (GCL) will have a transformative impact on the sport of chess, similar to the revolutionary effect that the Indian Premier League (IPL) had on cricket. The GCL, which is the world’s first and largest official franchise league of its kind, brings together chess players from around the world to compete in a unique joint team format.

Erigaisi, a 21-year-old chess prodigy from Warangal, has been making waves in the chess world this year. In June, he climbed to World No.4 in the FIDE world ratings after a victory over France’s Loic Travadon in the French Team Chess Championship 2024. Reflecting on his journey, Erigaisi expressed his excitement at being able to play alongside legendary players like Viswanathan Anand and Magnus Carlsen.

“I remember following the 2013 World Championship Match as a fan, and after 10-11 years, I got the chance to be in the same team as them. It’s a big delight,” said Erigaisi. The second season of the GCL is set to kick off in London on October 3, providing Erigaisi and other players with a unique opportunity to bond with new teammates from around the world.

Erigaisi emphasized his love for team chess tournaments, highlighting the distinct experience of competing alongside players whom he may not have met in person before. With the GCL set to bring a new level of excitement and competition to the chess world, Erigaisi is optimistic about the league’s potential to make a significant impact on the sport.

As the countdown to the start of the second season of the GCL begins, chess enthusiasts and fans alike can look forward to witnessing the evolution of the sport through this groundbreaking franchise league.