The Esports World Cup Chess Finals will take place in Paris from August 11 to 15. GM Magnus Carlsen is set to defend his title in the expanded 22-player event. The tournament offers a $1.5 million prize fund as part of the larger Esports World Cup.
The Esports World Cup Chess Finals will feature 22 players in an expanded format that includes a Play-In phase. Carlsen earned his spot last year by defeating GM Alireza Firouzja in the final. Eleven additional players qualified through the 2025-2026 Champions Chess Tour.
Four finalists from DreamHack Atlanta and four from the Last Chance Qualifier, scheduled for August 4 to 6 in Paris, will compete for the remaining two group stage spots. The event moves to the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles.
A $30 million Club Championship runs alongside the individual competition. Fans can purchase tickets or watch the official broadcast, which includes commentary and special guests.