Posted by ON April 23, 2026 in PRESS RELEASE
Building Bridges Between Chess and Esports
Esports Wales has been working alongside the Welsh Chess Union to support the development of chess within modern competitive formats, including its inclusion within wider esports‑style structures such as leagues, school competitions, and digital platforms.
By attending the Championship in Cardiff, Esports Wales was able to engage directly with players, organisers, and stakeholders, strengthening relationships and identifying opportunities to align chess with esports pathways across Wales.
John Jackson, CEO of Esports Wales, said:
“Chess and esports share a huge amount in common. Both reward strategic thinking, preparation, and mental resilience. Attending the Welsh Chess Union Championship was a great opportunity to continue building a relationship that supports players, promotes competitive thinking, and helps modernise how mind sports are delivered and experienced in Wales.”
A Shared Vision for Competitive Mind Sports
The collaboration reflects a wider ambition to bring together traditional and digital competitive disciplines, particularly within schools, colleges, and community settings. Chess already features within Esports Wales‑supported education competitions, sitting alongside other titles as part of a broader, inclusive approach to competitive gaming and mind sports in Wales.
Esports Wales and the Welsh Chess Union will continue discussions around future initiatives, with a focus on growing participation, visibility, and pathways for players of all ages.