Manchester City striker, Erling Haaland, has been announced as an investor in a new global chess tour.
The 25-year-old is backing the Norway Chess organisation, which is set to launch the Total Chess World Championship Tour next year.
Four tournaments will be staged annually in different cities, with a world champion crowned across three disciplines: fast classic, rapid and blitz chess.
It is being supported by the International Chess Federation (FIDE) and a pilot tournament is planned for this autumn.
ALSO READ: Haaland still world’s best striker — Guardiola
Each season will have a minimum prize pool of $2.7m (£2m) with Fide describing it as “one of the most significant developments in modern chess”.
Speaking to the federation’s website, Haaland said chess was “an incredible game” and he likened it to football as “it sharpens your mind”.
“You have to think quickly, trust your instincts and think several moves ahead. Strategy and planning are everything,” he added.
“I’m investing in Norway Chess because I believe the new Total Chess World Championship Tour can turn chess into an even bigger sport for spectators around the world.”
The Norwegian’s compatriot, grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, has won world titles across numerous formats.
(BBC)
"He was a symbol of strength, determination and resolve, and created unforgettable moments...
He emphasised the importance of coordination in planning, timely execution, disciplined delivery....
IFAB has already agreed to look at measures to stop players from hiding what they…
He said MMA’s emergence from relative obscurity reflects deliberate institutional backing by the Police....
They’ll capture a league that believes it belongs on the big stage and on April…
The footballer was found guilty of having non-consensual sexual relations in March 2021....
This website uses cookies.