Road to the Esports World Cup: Join the India Rising Tournament for a Chance to Compete in Riyadh!
New Path to Esports World Cup: India Rising Event Unveiled
In an exciting development for chess enthusiasts and esports fans alike, a new opportunity to qualify for the prestigious Esports World Cup (EWC) has been announced. The India Rising event, boasting a substantial prize fund of $30,000, will not only provide players with a chance to win cash but also secure a coveted spot at the EWC in Riyadh.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Mumbai, the event will feature a unique blend of online qualifiers culminating in an electrifying in-person final. Open to both professional and amateur players from around the globe, India Rising promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent and strategy.
How It Works
The competition kicks off on May 18 with the Open Qualifier, designed for non-titled players. Participants will engage in a nine-round Swiss format with a 10+0 time control. Players eager to join the action can register here.
Following the Open Qualifiers, the top five players will advance to the Titled Qualifier on May 23, where they will compete alongside titled players. Additionally, a separate Indian Qualifier for titled players registered with the Indian federation will also take place on the same day.
A Crucial Moment for Indian Players
As the countdown to the EWC continues, Indian players are determined to secure their place on the world stage. Currently, only Grandmaster Nihal Sarin has clinched his spot at the EWC, making the stakes even higher for competitors in the India Rising event. While the tournament is open to players worldwide, Indian participants will have the advantage of competing on home soil, bolstered by the support of their passionate fans.
The Road to the Finals
The top four players from both the Titled Qualifier and the Indian Qualifier will advance to the Playoffs on May 24. In a high-pressure single-elimination format, these eight players will battle it out for two coveted spots in the Finals. The finalists will then face off in a dramatic, winner-takes-all match in Mumbai, with only one player earning the chance to compete in the EWC Playoffs.
A New Era for Chess in Esports
India Rising marks a significant chapter in the evolving narrative of chess within the esports realm, following the successful EWC debut in 2025. Sponsored by JioBLAST, a joint venture aimed at accelerating esports growth in India, the event is set to be a spectacular showcase that deepens chess’s roots in the esports community.
As anticipation builds, fans are left wondering: Who will emerge victorious in the India Rising Finals and secure their place at the EWC? Share your predictions in the comments below!