Since 2013, Norway Chess has established itself as one of the world’s most prestigious chess tournaments, annually gathering the top global players in Stavanger, Norway. Every year, the chess elite comes together in this action-packed event, which is widely regarded as one of the most exciting tournaments on the chess calendar.
Since its inception in 2012, it has transformed Stavanger and Norway into a global chess hub. In 2024, Norway Chess made history by introducing Norway Chess Women, the first tournament to offer female players equal prize funds, setting a new standard for the future of chess.
The event has played a major part in popularizing chess by:
- Commercializing chess as a sport
- Introducing chess on national and international TV
- Contributing to the development of chess
- Elevating women’s chess with the introduction of Norway Chess Women in 2014
- Utilizing the opportunity chess gives to connect people from all backgrounds, cultures, ages and languages
- Focusing on sponsors and a high level of professionalism
History of Norway Chess
Photo of Founder Kjell Madland during the very first Norway Chess tournament, in 2013.
The Norway Chess journey began in 2012 with a bold ambition – to create the world’s strongest chess tournament in the home country of Magnus Carlsen, even before he became World Champion. The idea gained momentum in October 2011, when founder Kjell Madland hosted a simultaneous chess tournament with Magnus Carlsen. Twenty-five players – locals and celebrities of all ages – played against each other and the chess elite.
The first official tournament was held in 2013, before Carlsen’s rise to World Champion, marking a turning point in Norwegian chess. What once seemed unlikely – chess drawing half the nation’s TV audience – soon became reality. Today, chess is widely followed, played, and celebrated across Norway, inspiring similar developments worldwide.
From the beginning, Norway Chess has stood for innovation and professionalism. Early editions were held at unique locations like Flor & Fjære, the University of Stavanger, Utstein Monastery, and Stavanger Concert Hall – placing both chess and the Stavanger region on the international map.
In 2017, Norway Chess made history by hosting the highest-rated 10-player tournament ever. What started as a tournament has since grown into a global platform, transforming Stavanger into a world-renowned chess hub and helping redefine the role of chess in sport and society.
The introduction of Norway Chess Women in 2024
Photo: Ju Wenjun and Anna Muzychuk during Norway Chess 2024 (Norway Chess / Stev Bonhage)
2024 marked a significant milestone in our commitment to elevating women’s chess on a global stage. We introduced the world’s first equal super tournament for women – a parallel event held in the same venue, with identical formats, number of players, and equal prize money as the main event. This historic move set a new precedent in the chess world.
In 2025, Norway Chess Women returned for its second edition, once again running alongside the main tournament with the same format and prize fund. Its continuation once again set the standard for gender equality in professional chess, made possible by the support of our dedicated partners.
The Wimbledon of Chess
In 2014, Garry Kasparov famously called Norway Chess “the Wimbledon of Chess,” reflecting its prestigious and unique status. Like Wimbledon in tennis, Norway Chess creates an atmosphere of excitement and excellence, captivating audiences through immersive online commentary and TV broadcasts. This has cemented its reputation as a world-class chess tournament.
Stavanger’s rise as a global chess hub is the result of years of dedication and investment. Today, players, fans, FIDE, and the international chess community recognize Stavanger as one of the world’s premier chess cities. As FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich put it: “I don’t know Stavanger for oil and gas, but for chess.”
Introduction of New Time Control and Armageddon Playoffs
In 2019, Norway Chess introduced a bold change to its game format: Armageddon playoffs. Despite chess’s deep traditions, consultations with elite players encouraged the decision to try this exciting new approach. In Armageddon, time controls are shorter, ensuring every game has a decisive outcome. Draws in the classical format now lead to a thrilling Armageddon showdown.
The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with praise from both players and chess experts. Even FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich noted their interest in this innovative format. The change has not only enhanced the excitement but also doubled the official broadcast’s viewership.
Broadcast and Commentary: Reaching More Audiences Than Ever
Today, Norway Chess is broadcast live from three professional TV studios inside the playing venue, Finansparken in Stavanger.
In 2025, Norway Chess’ own international broadcast reached viewers in around 20 countries, through major platforms such as SonyLIV, Netease Sports, Sina Weibo, Arena Sport, and Sportspass. The broadcast was also made available on YouTube in select regions, significantly expanding its global reach since the pilot launch in 2024.
In addition, the tournament was shown on TV 2 Sport in Norway (an official partner since 2014), and streamed live on Chess.com, the world’s largest chess platform.
This broad and growing distribution has brought Norway Chess to millions of new viewers worldwide.
Photo: Norway Chess own international broadcast in 2025