Arjun Erigaisi Takes on New Challenge at eSports World Cup While Focusing on Candidates Tournament

Chess continues to evolve, with the game set to make its debut at the eSports World Cup in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in July 2025. As with many recent chess developments, Indian players are at the forefront of this new venture.

Arjun Erigaisi, one of India’s top-rated classical chess players, has signed with Gen G eSports as teams recruit elite talent for the 16-team tournament. The event will take place from July 31 to August 3, featuring a $1.5 million prize pool.

Erigaisi was drawn to the opportunity after discussions with chess stars Magnus Carlsen and Hikaru Nakamura. The unique format, with 10-minute games and no time increments, presents a new challenge that intrigued Erigaisi despite his usual preference for increment time controls.

“I’m fairly good with the mouse, but I’ll need to practice to become even faster,” Erigaisi told reporters. He described the time control as “more of a slow blitz” than rapid chess.

While excited about this new venture, Erigaisi remains focused on his primary goal for 2025 – qualifying for the Candidates tournament. The winner of the Candidates will face world champion Dommaraju Gukesh in the next world championship match.

“It’s been a rough start to the year, but qualifying for the Candidates is my main priority,” Erigaisi stated. “I’m confident in my chances if I play my best. There’s still plenty of time before the first qualifying event in September.”

Despite recent setbacks, Erigaisi has proven he can compete with the world’s best players. As he explores new avenues in chess, his ultimate aim remains clear – to contend for the classical world championship title.