(MENAFN- Mid-East Info) Norway Chess, the organizer of one of the world's most prestigious chess tournaments, has announced the launch of a brand-new global championship format officially approved by the International Chess Federation (FIDE). The new initiative the Total Chess World Championship Tour will crown an overall FIDE World Combined Champion across three disciplines: Fast Classic, Rapid, and Blitz.

Marking a major evolution in professional chess, the Total Chess World Championship Tour aims to identify“ The Total Chess Player” a tactically sharp, versatile, and technically brilliant competitor who masters all time controls.“We are looking for the ultimate all-rounder the Total Chess Player someone who can seamlessly adapt across formats,” said Kjell Madland, CEO of Norway Chess and the new championship.“With FIDE's support, we're creating one of the most exciting and dynamic events in the chess calendar.”

The Tour will feature four tournaments each year hosted in major global cities, with an annual prize pool exceeding $2.7 million. Each of the first three events will carry a $750,000 prize fund, while the Finals featuring the top four players will offer $450,000 in prizes. Additional bonuses will be awarded for performance and consistency throughout the season.

A pilot tournament is scheduled for fall 2026, with the first full championship season launching in 2027. The new“Fast Classic” format 45 minutes plus a 30-second increment will count as classical chess under FIDE ratings, bringing pace and precision to a traditionally long format.

FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich hailed the move as a major step in chess innovation:“Chess is already one of the world's most popular games, yet its growth potential is still enormous. The Total Chess World Championship Tour offers players a new title to fight for and fans a fast-paced, engaging experience. It complements the traditional World Chess Championship and will attract new audiences to the sport.”

Madland added that the tour will leverage cutting-edge technology, innovative broadcasts, and interactive streaming to engage fans worldwide.“Our vision is to make chess more entertaining, modern, and accessible - without compromising the sport's depth and integrity,” he said.

The Total Chess World Championship Tour is a long-term partnership between Norway Chess and FIDE. Organizers are currently inviting host cities, investors, and partners to join the global expansion of this groundbreaking initiative.

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