Giant screens and crowds amplify chess at EWC 2026 in Paris as Carlsen defends title

In Paris at the 2026 Esports World Cup, chess was presented on a louder stage with giant screens, live crowds, music and esports-style production surrounding the world’s best players.

Magnus Carlsen defended his title, while India’s Arjun Erigaisi and Nihal Sarin reached the top eight.

The feature, through players, fans and organisers, examines how chess is adapting to esports without changing the game itself and what that could mean for its future.