The chess world is buzzing as Geneva gears up for the showdown between India's D Gukesh and Uzbekistan's Javokhir Sindarov.
The match carries a staggering $2.5 million prize, the largest FIDE purse since 1921's $20 k showdown between Capablanca and Alekhine.
Back in 1886, the first world title was fought in the U.S. – Steinitz outscored Zukertort 10‑5, with the $4,000 stakes split across New York, St. Louis and New Orleans.
The 20th‑century saw Lasker’s high‑handed demands clash with Capablanca’s insistence on fair play. After a bitter back‑and‑forth, Capablanca finally claimed the crown in 1921, winning a $20,000 purse.
FIDE’s 1948 tournament crowned Botvinnik, ushering in a new era of organised cycles and world‑champion titles.
The first game kicks off on November 22, and the winner will hold the title until the next challenger emerges.