Tech Mahindra Teams Up With FIDE For “Phygital” Global Chess League

The International Chess Federation has signed an MoU with Tech Mahindra Ltd to establish the Global Chess League. It will be the only world league officially recognised by FIDE.

The first-of-its-kind “phygital” (physical and digital) competition will have multiple franchises from across the globe and players at all levels.

Commenting on the partnership, Anand Mahindra, Chairman, Mahindra Group, said, "From tweeting about the game to forming a league under Viswanathan Anand's mentorship, and now on-boarding FIDE – the entire journey has been very gratifying. With the coming together of all the forces in the field of chess and technology, we hope the 'Global Chess League' will take the game to new heights and create vibrant opportunities for the entire chess community across the world."

The partnership aims to tap cutting edge technologies like 5G, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, to promote Chess through interactive technology-enabled platforms.  

Arkady Dvorkovich, FIDE President, said, "The motto of Chess is 'Gens una sumus,' meaning "We are one people", and we at FIDE take this unique opportunity to popularise the game which bears the motto of uniting the world. We are endeavouring to dramatically enhance its visibility through a global league powered by technology and are honoured to have partnered with Tech Mahindra."

A new holding company will be set up to oversee the Global Chess League. FIDE president will be part of the board of Directors. Five-time world chess champion Viswanathan Anand will serve as a mentor and partner.

Viswanathan Anand said, "With FIDE coming on board along with Tech Mahindra, I am sure the Global Chess League will help in catalysing the popularity of the game while keeping the spirit of the game intact and create opportunities for young talent across the world."