Exploring the Future of Chess Growth: Insights from the MIT Sloan Sports Analytics Conference

Chess enthusiasts and industry leaders gathered at the MIT Sloan Sports Analytics Conference in Boston last weekend to discuss the future of the game and how it can reach a wider audience. The panel discussion, hosted by Chess.com’s Chief Chess Officer Danny Rensch, featured star chess personalities Alexandra Botez and Levy Rozman, along with industry experts Ella Papanek and Daryl Morey.

Reflecting on the discussions, Rensch highlighted Morey’s insights on engaging audiences through game formats and content packaging, drawing parallels to chess’s challenges in staying fresh and accessible. Papanek also shared insights on how randomness could play a crucial role in broadening chess’s appeal, particularly in the realm of fantasy sports and betting.

The event also featured fun activities, including FM James Canty’s simul against conference attendees and an AMA session with Botez and Rozman on Chess.com’s Instagram account. The Guess The Elo event, where attendees tried to guess the Elo ratings of MIT students’ games, saw GothamChess taking home the crown for the second year in a row.

Overall, the conference provided valuable insights on how chess can evolve and attract a wider audience, taking inspiration from other sports to keep the game engaging and accessible to all. With discussions on randomness, game formats, and audience engagement, the future of chess looks promising as it continues to grow and evolve in the world of sports.