Magnus Carlsen Returns to Global Chess League; Divya Deshmukh Set to Make Debut in Fourth Edition
Magnus Carlsen Returns to Global Chess League; Divya Deshmukh Set for Debut
In an exciting turn of events for chess enthusiasts, Norwegian grandmaster Magnus Carlsen is set to make his much-anticipated return to the Global Chess League after a year-long hiatus. Joining him in this thrilling fourth edition will be FIDE Women’s World Cup champion Divya Deshmukh, who will be making her debut in the tournament.
The draft for the fourth season is scheduled to take place on June 29, with the tournament itself being held in Bengaluru from September 3 to 13, as announced by the organizers on Saturday.
The player pool for Season 4 boasts an impressive lineup of 36 grandmasters, featuring a mix of seasoned champions and emerging talents. This includes World Champions, World Cup winners, and Olympiad medallists, ensuring a competitive atmosphere that promises to captivate fans worldwide.
“The diversity in our player pool allows franchises to craft balanced six-player squads across various categories,” the organizers stated. Teams will have the opportunity to assemble their squads from a draft that includes one icon, two superstar men, two superstar women, and one prodigy, all competing in a six-board rapid format.
Among the notable names in the draft list are five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand, 2025 FIDE World Cup winner Javokhir Sindarov, Women’s World Rapid Champion Koneru Humpy, former Women’s World Champion Alexandra Kosteniuk, World Championship challenger Ian Nepomniachtchi, and Olympiad gold medallist Levon Aronian. The reigning World Rapid Champion Volodar Murzin and Indian GM Leon Luke Mendonca will also be vying for a spot in the tournament.
As the chess community gears up for this exciting season, fans are eager to see how Carlsen’s return and Deshmukh’s debut will shape the competition. With a blend of established stars and fresh talent, the Global Chess League is poised to deliver thrilling matches and unforgettable moments.