Tech Mahindra's Global Chess League Season 3 Launches with Spectacular Ceremony in Mumbai

Tech Mahindra's Global Chess League Season 3 Kicks Off

The much-anticipated Season 3 of the Global Chess League (GCL) began with an exciting opening ceremony held at the Royal Opera House in Mumbai. This year, the league promises a grand spectacle as six teams will compete through 34 matches for the crown, with the season running from December 14 to December 23, 2025.

The ceremony featured the unveiling of the GCL Season 3 Trophy, the ultimate prize that embodies the competitive spirit of the tournament. Notable figures in attendance included Mr. Anand Mahindra, Chairperson of the Mahindra Group; chess legends Viswanathan Anand and reigning GCL champion Alireza Firouzja, among others. The presence of such iconic personalities underscores the league's stature and commitment to exciting competitive chess.

Peeyush Dubey, Chairperson of the Tech Mahindra Global Chess League, articulated the ambitions behind the event, highlighting its role in reinvigorating chess for a new audience. With innovations aimed at enhancing fan engagement and showcasing world-class talent, Season 3 is positioned to be the most exciting yet.

The GCL aims to merge tradition with modernity, providing a platform where seasoned professionals and emerging talents can shine. Arkady Dvorkovich, President of FIDE, emphasized the importance of this league in promoting chess worldwide, creating a dynamic environment that appeals to a broad audience.

Returning as champions, the Triveni Continental Kings led by Alireza Firouzja, aim to secure a third consecutive title. Their CEO, Akash Premsen, expressed both the pride and pressure that comes with defending the championship, pointing out the increased competition among the participating teams this season.

Fans can expect a high level of play from renowned chess players, including internationally celebrated names like Hikaru Nakamura, Fabiano Caruana, Beth Harmon, and Hou Yifan. The inclusion of top-tier players signifies the league's evolution as a premier destination for chess enthusiasts and competitors alike.

The GCL framework features a double round-robin format, with each team contesting ten matches in the group stage. Matches will be played on six boards, showcasing a blend of male, female, and young prodigy talent, fostering an inclusive atmosphere that celebrates diversity in chess. This format emphasizes not just the strategic depth of the game, but also the thrill of teamwork and competition.

Moreover, fans attending the matches will enjoy innovative features such as in-arena commentary via headphones and AI-driven analytics displayed on large screens, which aim to enhance the viewing experience and make chess more accessible to new audiences.

Through its strategic focus on inclusivity and the promotion of high-quality play, the GCL is not only a battleground for champions but also a celebration of chess as a global sport. Various franchises participating in this season, such as the Ganges Grandmasters and PBG Alaskan Knights, have built their teams around a solid core, each aiming to strike the right balance between youthful exuberance and experienced insight.

The league's growing popularity reflects India's rise as a powerhouse in chess, with young players like Gukesh D and Arjun Erigaisi paving the way for a new generation of talent that is capturing the world's attention. This evolution in India's chess landscape is pivotal as it coincides with the hosting of GCL's Season 3 in Mumbai, raising expectations and excitement levels for local fans.

For those unable to attend in person, the matches will be broadcasted live, allowing chess fans to engage with the league remotely. Comprehensive updates and interactions can also be accessed through the official GCL mobile app, ensuring that audiences worldwide can partake in this grand chess celebration.

With ten days of intense competition ahead, the Global Chess League is set to carve another exciting chapter in the annals of chess history. As these elite players face off in one of the world's most prestigious formats, spectators are sure to witness a captivating blend of talent, strategy, and the timeless appeal of chess.