Espen Agdestein, “Chess as esport is taking shape, with Carlsen this is only the start”

Espen Agdestein, Carlsen’s former coach and current business partner, has commented on the recent news that Esports World Chess Cup 2026 is becoming a full-fledged cycle.

Agdestein retweeted the article of Newsweek, which says, “As the Esports industry turned to Carlsen to help break through its cultural bubble, classical chess fans were served a preview of their future — at least in the opinion of the world’s highest-rated player: “I felt that chess was becoming a sport in a way that it hasn’t before,” Carlsen said of the EWC format. “It was fast-paced. Great production. Very knowledgeable and enthusiastic crowds. I personally have loved the idea of exactly that: crowds being able to be expressive, be loud, and also being a part of something a little bigger, with the Esports World Cup.””

Magnus Carlsen and EWC

Magnus Carlsen, the defending EWC champion and world No. 1, has been a vocal advocate for chess as an esport. His 2025 victory, representing Team Liquid, not only earned him $250,000 but also highlighted the game’s potential to thrive in a high-energy, digital-first environment. Carlsen praised the EWC’s fast-paced 10+0 format, neon-lit stage, and enthusiastic crowds, noting that it made chess feel like “a sport in a way that it hasn’t before.”

“I’m excited for a second year of EWC Chess,” Carlsen said. “This new qualification cycle means more events and more chances for the world’s best players to meet me back in Riyadh.” His confidence is well-earned, having dominated the 2025 final against Firouzja with four wins, two draws, and one loss in a best-of-five series.