Daijiworld Media Network - Oslo
Oslo, Oct 15: The chess world is set for a major shake-up as Norway Chess, in partnership with the International Chess Federation (FIDE), has announced the launch of the Total Chess World Championship Tour — a new global event that will crown a FIDE World Combined Champion across three formats: fast classical, rapid, and blitz.
The first full season will kick off in 2027, following a pilot event in late 2026, featuring four tournaments each year with a total prize pool of USD 2.7 million.
“We are searching for The Total Chess Player — a versatile, tactical, and technically skilled athlete who adapts to all formats,” said Kjell Madland, CEO of Norway Chess and head of the new championship.
The series will introduce a new fast classical format with a 45-minute time control and a 30-second increment, which will now count for classical ratings under FIDE rules. The first three tournaments will each carry a prize fund of USD 750,000, while the grand finale — featuring four top players — will offer USD 450,000.
FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich hailed the move as “a great addition” to the traditional world championship, saying it would bring “more excitement and innovation” to the sport.
The 24-player tour will feature top-rated players and qualifiers from elite tournaments such as the World Rapid & Blitz Championship.
Norway Chess, founded in 2013, is among the world’s premier tournaments. Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, who won the 2025 edition for a record seventh time, is expected to welcome the new championship, having earlier withdrawn from the classical title cycle citing its rigid format.
“This has been our dream — to take Norway Chess global,” said Benedicte Westre Skog, Co-owner and COO of Norway Chess. “It’s incredible that we were able to create a new World Championship in the chess calendar.”
While the fate of the existing Norway Chess event remains uncertain, Madland confirmed that the 2026 edition will be held as planned, adding that “good news” will be announced soon.