Team Liquid Signs Chess Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen

Esports organization Team Liquid has announced the signing of world-renowned chess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen. The Norwegian chess champion will join the team on a three-year contract, underscoring the organization's serious commitment to developing its chess division.

This signing follows the acquisition of another notable grandmaster, Fabiano Caruana, on February 11th. These strategic moves highlight Team Liquid's intention to strengthen its position in the world of chess, particularly in light of the inclusion of chess in the Esports World Cup 2025.

The Esports World Cup 2025, scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia starting on July 31st, will be the first-ever chess tournament within the competition. The prize pool for the event will amount to $1.5 million, with 16 of the world’s top players participating. With the addition of high-profile chess players like Carlsen and Caruana, Team Liquid aims to contend for top spots in the organizational rankings and significantly enhance its chances of securing a substantial share of the prize pool.

Last year, Team Liquid placed second in the overall EWC 2024 organizational rankings, earning $4 million. With the new signings and active participation in chess tournaments, the organization hopes to improve its performance and strengthen its standing on the international stage.