Chennai Grandmasters 2025: Schedule, Venue, Timing, Format, Prize Pool, List of International Stars Participating

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Chennai, Aug 5: The city of Chennai is once again set to become the epicenter of elite chess action as it hosts the Chennai Grandmasters 2025 tournament.

Scheduled to run from August 6 to 15, this prestigious event will bring together ten top-level international grandmasters, including several from India, for a compelling round-robin battle.

Tournament Format and Structure

Both the Masters and Challengers sections will follow a 10-player round-robin format, played under classical time controls. Each participant will play nine rounds, ensuring they face every other competitor, a true test of endurance, strategic depth, and mental stamina.

Each round will begin at 3:00 PM IST, giving fans ample time to follow the games live either at the venue or through official online platforms.

What's New in 2025?

The 2025 edition of the Chennai Grandmasters has undergone a major transformation. This year, the tournament has expanded into a 20-player event, now divided into two competitive sections: the Masters and the Challengers. This revamped format not only raises the tournament's profile but also provides an exciting opportunity-the winner of the Challengers earns a direct entry into the 2026 Masters.

The spectator experience has also received a major upgrade. The venue will host a dedicated commentary hall, fan interaction zones, interactive displays, and exclusive merchandise stalls, bringing fans closer to the action than ever before.

Prize Money

A record ₹1 crore prize pool makes this the richest edition, reflecting the tournament's growing stature on the global chess calendar. The winner will take home ₹25 lakh, while the remaining prize pool will be distributed among other top performers.

Significance of the Chennai Grandmasters

This tournament is not just about silverware; it serves as a vital battleground for rating gains, strategic preparation ahead of major international tournaments, and as a key platform for Indian grandmasters to compete against global talent on home soil. It also contributes to India's rising reputation as a powerhouse in the global chess community.

Moreover, the tournament is a part of India's larger mission to strengthen its claim to host the Chess Olympiad 2028.

Line-Up of Players at Chennai Grandmasters 2025

The 2025 edition features a diverse and competitive field comprising top Indian and foreign grandmasters:

Masters Section

Top Indian and global grandmasters in action:

• Arjun Erigaisi (India No. 1)
• Vidit Gujrathi
• Nihal Sarin
• Karthikeyan Murali (Tamil Nadu)
• Pranav V (promoted from last year's Challengers)

International stars:

Anish Giri (Netherlands), Vincent Keymer (Germany), Ray Robson (USA), Awonder Liang (USA), Jorden van Foreest (Netherlands)

Challengers Section

Rising Indian talents vying for a breakthrough: R Vaishali, Harika Dronavalli, Leon Luke Mendonca, Abhimanyu Puranik, Aryan Chopra, Adhiban Baskaran, Iniyan P, Diptayan Ghosh, Pranesh M, Vaishali Rameshbabu.

Additionally, two slots were awarded via the CGM Play-In, an online Swiss‐plus‐knockout event on chess.com in July-for titled Indian players seeking to earn entry into the Challengers section.

Chennai Grandmasters 2025: Player Line-up

Masters Section

Challengers Section

Why This Competition Matters

• Expanded format and top-tier field cater to greater competitive depth.
• The massive prize money and FIDE points on offer significantly boost its global importance.
• Provides a platform for emerging Indian talents to play classical chess at an elite level.
• Played on home soil, it strengthens India's chess ecosystem and visibility in the global chess circuit.

The Chennai Grandmasters 2025 promises high-octane action, world-class chess, and a chance for India's finest to shine on home turf. With a rich mix of youth and experience, the tournament is set to deliver memorable moments and further elevate India's global chess credentials.