Tech Mahindra’s Global Chess League Expanding Game’s Popularity Beyond Borders
Tech Mahindra, a leading technology company, has been making waves in the world of chess by sponsoring the 2024 Chess Olympiad held in Budapest. The company’s involvement in the global chess scene is part of its efforts to expand the game’s popularity and reach a wider audience through innovative technological solutions.
The Global Chess League (GCL), organized by Tech Mahindra in collaboration with the International Chess Federation (FIDE), is a prime example of how technology like artificial intelligence (AI), the metaverse, and data analytics can enhance the game of chess. The league’s second season is set to take place in London, following the success of the inaugural season in Dubai.
The GCL has attracted millions of viewers worldwide, with the final alone drawing 1.31 million viewers on Eurosport. The tournament reached over 100 million users globally on social media, showcasing the growing interest in chess as a competitive sport.
Peeyush Dubey, the chief marketing officer of Tech Mahindra and chairperson of GCL, highlighted the company’s unique approach to sponsoring the league. Instead of simply placing logos, Tech Mahindra has created an entire ecosystem to build the league and integrate technology into the game.
To further engage fans, Tech Mahindra has partnered with Chess.com, a popular platform in the chess community with over 600 million visitors per month. The company’s platform, Fan Nxt, will provide fans with an interactive experience using AI, augmented reality, and virtual reality to enhance their understanding of the game and learn from top players like Magnus Carlsen and Vishy Anand.
With the GCL projected to generate $40 million in value within five years, Tech Mahindra is not only expanding the reach of chess but also exploring new revenue streams through sponsorship and fantasy league options. The company’s commitment to integrating technology into the game is setting a new standard for the future of chess as a competitive sport.