Ilya Merenzon: How Gukesh and India Are Transforming the Game
India’s teenage chess prodigy, Gukesh, has been crowned World Chess Champion. This milestone is monumental for chess—but it’s about more than a trophy. It marks a turning point in the global chess economy.
India’s Chess Revolution
With a population of 1.4 billion, a growing middle class, and a deep cultural connection to chess, India is at the forefront of a global chess renaissance. The game is no longer just a pastime—it’s becoming a symbol of upward mobility.
When Gukesh lifted the championship trophy, it wasn’t just a personal triumph—it signaled the rise of a movement.
At World Chess, this is the moment we’ve been preparing for, and we’re not just spectators. We’ve already partnered with Gukesh to amplify his meteoric rise.
Gukesh x World Chess:
Before Gukesh became a global icon, he was already taking part in our Armageddon Championship Series. This high-stakes, rapid-play format spotlighted his brilliance, showing the world that chess is faster, younger, and more dynamic than ever before.
We didn’t stop there. To celebrate Gukesh’s ascent, we launched the Official Gukesh Chess Set—a collector’s item that captures his legacy. More than a chessboard, it’s a piece of history, and it’s already a bestseller.
This isn’t just a collaboration; it’s proof of our ability to recognize and elevate the moments that define the future of chess.
Why India Is the Chess Market to Watch
Chess in India is more than a game—it’s becoming a cultural aspiration. For families, investing in chess is a way to cultivate intellect and ambition. At the heart of this transformation is the official FIDE-recognized rating.
Through Chess Arena, World Chess provides the only platform where players can earn official ratings online. For millions in India, where traditional tournaments can be out of reach, this is revolutionary. It’s an opportunity to climb the global ranks, compete from home, and gain international recognition.
What’s Next?
Gukesh’s success has sparked a wave of momentum, and World Chess is looking forward to the opportunity to grow in India: Expanding Chess Arena: Introducing localized features, tournaments, and tailored options to make FIDE ratings more accessible to Indian players.
