CHESS BAROMETER

The Chess Barometer is a research project by World Chess. It provides a unique perspective on global chess engagement and its cultural impact via statistics, commissioned research, and partnership with the institutions. This year’s edition of the Barometer combines demographic data and participation trends to offer insights into how chess resonates with different age groups, genders, and playing habits.

If you would like to request more information or raw data, or propose a collabraiton, please reach out to Nadia Panteleeva at panteleeva@worldchess.com

Chess in Germany

In Germany, A small but significant group engages with chess daily or weekly, while the majority participate less frequently.

Notably, younger demographics (18–24) show higher levels of occasional engagement, highlighting a potential growth audience

Chess Engagement in the UK

In the United Kingdom, the most engaged age group is 35 — 44, with 18 — 24 the second largest. Out of the 35 — 44 age category, staggering 84 percent play chess from time to time.