Vidit Gujrathi Eyes Paris Glory as India Rises in Global Chess

Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi is gearing up for the India Rising: Road to EWC Chess LAN Finals happening in Mumbai this Saturday, where he hopes to secure his ticket to the prestigious Esports World Cup 2026 in Paris. In an exclusive conversation, the accomplished chess player discussed his progression through the qualifying rounds and shared insights into his ambitions on the international stage.

Vidit revealed that his journey through the qualifiers was far from straightforward, facing moments where elimination seemed imminent. Despite these challenges, he remained focused on his ultimate goal and expressed strong confidence in India's dedicated pathway for aspiring chess professionals through the Esports World Cup framework. His determination reflects the competitive spirit driving India's chess community forward.

The grandmaster highlighted India's remarkable ascent in the global chess rankings and emphasized that while the country has established itself as a powerhouse in the sport, significant ground remains to be covered before achieving complete dominance on the world stage. He pointed out that the integration of chess with esports platforms is creating unprecedented opportunities for Indian talent to gain international exposure and compete at the highest levels.

Vidit's participation in the Mumbai finals underscores the city's growing importance as a hub for competitive chess in India. The event represents a crucial stepping stone for players targeting the 2026 Paris championships. Success here would position Vidit among India's elite representatives in the global chess-esports ecosystem, contributing to the nation's broader ambitions in this rapidly evolving field.

Source: Times of India