Indian chess grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi is hopeful that the Global Chess League (GCL) will have a transformative effect on the sport, similar to the revolutionary impact the Indian Premier League (IPL) had on cricket. The GCL, the world’s first and largest official franchise league of its kind, brings together chess players from all corners of the globe in a unique team format.
“It’s definitely a great thing that we now have the Global Chess League in the chess circuit. I really hope it makes a big impact in the chess world like IPL did to cricket,” said Erigaisi, who at 21 years old has already become a chess prodigy. Earlier this year, he climbed to the No. 4 spot in the FIDE world ratings after defeating France’s Loic Travadon in the French Team Chess Championship 2024.
Erigaisi’s excitement extends beyond the league’s format. Having watched the legendary Viswanathan Anand and Magnus Carlsen battle for the World Championship in 2013, he is thrilled to be on the same team as these chess giants. “Last year, I was on the same team as Magnus Carlsen, and now I am on the same team as Vishy Anand, sir. I remember following the 2013 World Championship Match as a fan, and after 10-11 years, I got the chance to be in the same team as them. It’s a big delight,” shared Erigaisi.
The second season of GCL kicks off in London on October 3rd. Erigaisi, a dedicated team player, welcomes the opportunity to participate in this unique league. “There are a limited number of team chess tournaments, but I love it whenever I get a chance to participate in a team event. This is a bit different from other team events like the Olympiad or World Teams because you wouldn’t know most of your teammates in person, so it presents a unique opportunity to bond with new minds,” he added.
With its global reach and unique team format, the GCL is poised to attract a wider audience and potentially elevate the sport of chess to new heights, echoing the impact of the IPL on cricket.
