Garry Kasparov Backs Grand Chess Tour Amidst Growing Support For Esports World Cup

Last Updated:April 30, 2026, 10:31 IST

Garry Kasparov backs the Grand Chess Tour as it enters its 11th edition, while Magnus Carlsen, Hikaru Nakamura and Alireza Firouzja choose the Esports World Cup

The ongoing debate over the scheduling of elite chess events has resurfaced, with Garry Kasparov voicing strong support for the Grand Chess Tour even as several top players pivot towards the Esports World Cup. As the Tour enters its second decade, Kasparov emphasised its enduring significance and its ability to attract global attention despite increasing competition from newer formats.

“We are entering now the second decade of Grand Chess Tour, its 11th edition. And this series still keeps the world of chess very excited," Kasparov said. “We have new players coming in, and of course, as it often happens with great tournaments, we have a new intrigue."

Gukesh vs Sindarov

One of the key storylines this season is the anticipated clash between Javokhir Sindarov and reigning world champion D. Gukesh. Kasparov highlighted their meeting in Warsaw as a particularly compelling moment for fans. “Who would have imagined that Warsaw will feature first game between Sindarov and Gukesh. Pure coincidence, but it’s a lucky one. It shows GCT is always at the cutting edge," he added.

Although Gukesh has opted out of the classical events on the Tour to focus on his preparation, he is still expected to compete in the rapid and blitz leg in Poland.

Magnus Carlsen In Support Of Breakaway

However, the Tour will be missing some of the biggest names in modern chess. According to Hikaru Nakamura, world No.1 Magnus Carlsen, along with Alireza Firouzja, will prioritise the Esports World Cup instead.

“As far as I know, neither EWC nor GCT have changed the dates. I’m going to be playing EWC. Alireza Firouzja is going to be playing EWC. Magnus, of course, will be playing the EWC," Nakamura said.

The Esports World Cup, scheduled for August with a $1.5 million prize pool, presents a lucrative alternative, while the Grand Chess Tour — featuring six events and a $2 million fund — begins on May 5 in Warsaw, setting the stage for a fascinating split in the chess calendar.

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