FIDE Approves New "Total Chess World Championship Tour" with $2.7 Million Prize Pool

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has officially approved the "Total Chess World Championship Tour," a new multi-format championship aiming to crown a "FIDE World Combined Champion." The initiative, spearheaded by Norway Chess, was announced on October 18, 2025, and seeks to identify the most versatile player across various chess disciplines. The tour will feature a substantial minimum annual prize pool of $2.7 million.

Grandmaster Anish Giri, a prominent figure in the chess world, reacted to the news via social media, stating, > "The YouTube short is now approved by FIDE!" His comment, made on the same day as the FIDE announcement, is widely interpreted as a sardonic nod to the new championship's approval. Giri has previously expressed skepticism, labeling the tour the "Magnus Tour" and describing the qualification system as "very messy."

The "Total Chess World Championship Tour" is designed to test players across three disciplines: Fast Classic, Rapid, and Blitz chess. It will comprise four annual tournaments held in various global cities, culminating in the crowning of an overall champion. A pilot tournament is slated for the fall of 2026, with the first full championship season scheduled for 2027. The winner will be awarded the title of "Golden King."

FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich expressed strong support for the new format, stating, "We are always looking for ways to innovate and push the boundaries of what chess can be." He added that the tournament aims to captivate both existing chess fans and new audiences with its faster format. However, the announcement has drawn mixed reactions from the chess community, with some criticizing the "Golden King" title as "cheesy" and others questioning the perceived influence of World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen in shaping the new championship.

The tour also includes provisions for two qualification spots in the prestigious Candidates Tournament, further integrating it into the established world championship cycle. This aspect has also fueled debate, with some players, including Giri, highlighting potential complications for the traditional classical format. The organizers, Norway Chess, anticipate the tour will become one of the most prestigious events in the chess calendar.