A three-month preparation window is now open for amateur players seeking Esports World Cup 2026 qualification via the Chess.com Global Chess Championship.

Non-titled players will compete in online open qualifiers starting March 14. The format is a 9-round Swiss tournament with a 10+0 time control. Qualifiers from this stage will advance to face titled opponents.

The Chess.com Global Championship event is the world’s largest open online chess tournament with no direct invitations. The event offers a qualification path to the Esports World Cup for its top finishers.