Beyond 64 Squares: Reinventing the Game with Global Chess League
There is a lot that one can learn from a game of chess. This game, steeped in history and strategic complexity, has been around for centuries, extending its lessons far beyond the confines of its 64 squares. It helps us embrace a strategic mindset—each step must be carefully thought out as we anticipate our opponent’s next move.
I have always felt chess applies to all aspects of our lives, especially in business. It is a rigorous mental exercise that teaches its players to anticipate and think ahead, make proactive decisions, and reinvent oneself to different scenarios. Intricate rules and endless possibilities make playing this game both a mental workout and an art form. Beyond entertainment, it sharpens our cognitive skills, fosters patience, and teaches resilience. These are lessons that are not just confined to the chessboard; they are vital in the business world. Chess and business share key values such as planning, speed, strategy, and risk management. Success in chess and business hinges on our ability to foresee and adapt.
Uniting Chess on a Global Scale with Technology
605 million adults play chess regularly and 70% of all adults have played chess at some point in their lives. This game became even more popular when the pandemic confined us all to our homes. In India, chess has always held a special significance. For centuries, we have played variations of this game, including the ancient Indian game of chaturanga. The country has produced some of the world's greatest chess talents, from Viswanathan Anand to the stars of today—R. Praggnanandhaa, Arjun Erigaisi, and more.
Despite its rich heritage, this sport requires greater promotion and support to reach its full global potential. The infusion of technology with chess opens exciting new opportunities, transforming both fields. With the Global Chess League (GCL), our collaboration with the International Chess Federation (FIDE) is a commitment to intellectual development and strategic thinking that will equip us to scale at speed as well as bring the sport closer to the fans. Through this partnership, we aim to spotlight chess, providing a global platform for chess talent to excel and be celebrated.
Our involvement in chess is also driven by this belief that we see immense potential to enhance the fan experience and connect with millions of enthusiasts worldwide. AI-driven analytics can provide deep insights into game strategies, while immersive virtual reality experiences can bring fans closer to the action, revolutionizing how chess is played and enjoyed.
Building on the Success of Season 1
What we are doing with GCL is not just about playing this game; it is creating an ecosystem that is bound to yield value for all its stakeholders. We estimate that GCL will create tremendous business value for the players, league owners, franchises, sponsors, and broadcasters. GCL is certainly going to have an immense economic impact in the future for a large group of its stakeholders. The recent partnership we announced with Chess.com expands the reach of the league even further.
The great news is that GCL has already set a precedent with a stellar first season—being the first franchise league and the first chess league in the metaverse. With a major global broadcast, GCL Season 1 presented a never-seen-before format in chess, the only league in pro sports with a joint team format, becoming the first major league to feature both men and women on the same team. Millions of viewers tuned into the broadcast globally, and the final was watched by 1.31 million viewers on Eurosport. The tournament recorded a global reach of over 100 million users on social media.
What We Anticipate for Season 2
At the 45th Chess Olympiad in Budapest this year, India made history winning the first-ever gold medals in the women’s and open sections. This double-gold win also gives us a significant boost as we head to the second season of GCL in London. The impressive performances will undoubtedly inject confidence and enhance the gameplay for these players, making it a spectacular season to watch out for.
I am also particularly excited about the fan engagement being a central theme this season—at the venue, during the broadcast, and via the league’s digital footprint. Fans of this game can participate in challenges during the league to win reward points. More than sponsorship, this program solidifies our belief in strategic thinking as the driver of success at every level.
Our goal is to connect with fans on a deeper level, bringing them closer to the game and enhancing their experience with new and innovative formats that bring new perspectives to chess. Tech Mahindra’s promise is to Scale at Speed™ and by integrating advanced technologies and creating engaging, immersive experiences, we will keep scaling our initiatives rapidly while maintaining a consistent level of quality and engagement. The second edition will provide a unique platform for the global growth of chess.
Investing in the Future
For Tech Mahindra and Mahindra Group, investing in chess is both a matter of pride and a reflection of our commitment to nurturing talent and promoting intellectual growth. The Group has a longstanding history of supporting sports that resonate with our cultural heritage and values.
Chess, with its deep emphasis on strategic thinking, aligns perfectly with our vision. Tech Mahindra Global Chess League is redefining the broadcast, viewership, and fan experiences. Using technology-led solutions, the league will bring this sport closer to its fans and enable new playing experiences for chess players globally.
Looking forward to a grandmaster showdown in London.
