Chess Returns to Esports World Cup 2026: Format, Dates, and $1.5M Prize Pool Revealed

• Chess will be part of the Esports World Cup 2026 in Riyadh, featuring world No. 1 Magnus Carlsen.
• The tournament offers four qualification pathways, including slots from the Speed Chess Championship and Chess.com Global Championship.
• The event will take place from August 11 to 15, 2026, with a total prize pool of $1.5 million.
• The format includes a Play-in stage, a group stage with 16 players, and a single-elimination playoff for the top eight.
• Magnus Carlsen, representing Team Liquid, won the previous edition, defeating Alireza Firouzja in the final.