The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has organized a groundbreaking tournament for the elite of the sport. From November 10 to 21, Budapest will host the first edition of the Total Chess World Championship.

This pilot competition will bring together the three disciplines—classical, rapid, and blitz—in a single event, with the aim of determining the most complete player in both the men’s and women’s categories.

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The pilot tournament in the Hungarian capital will feature the confirmed participation of the world number one, Magnus Carlsen of Norway. Following this edition, FIDE projects that, starting in March 2027, the competition will become a global circuit.

This Total Chess World Championship Tour will consist of four events throughout the year in different cities, bringing together the 24 highest-ranked players.

The combined results across the three disciplines will crown the overall world champion. The international organization, headed by Russian Arkady Dvorkovich, emphasized that the initiative ushers in a new era.

The goal is to redefine how elite players compete, creating a more dynamic and engaging experience for players, spectators, and commentators. Unlike traditional tournaments, this format rewards versatility, consistency, and adaptability.

Under the motto “Three disciplines. One champion. One world circuit,” the new project is sponsored by Norway Chess and receives financial support from figures such as Erling Haaland and Johannes Klaebo.

FIDE noted that this backing reflects the growing confidence in chess’s commercial potential. The choice of Budapest as the host city reflects Hungary’s “fundamental role in the history of chess” and the legacy of Judit Pólgar.

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