Chess.com has unveiled the Speed Chess Championship XI, launching its first stage on November 16 with matches extending through February 7, 2027. The tournament brings together 16 international competitors in a knockout format, with the championship final scheduled for London from February 5 to 7. The field includes players from Norway, the United States, France, Belarus, Uzbekistan, India, Germany, Turkey, Russia, and Iran.

The competition will test players across multiple time controls using a Match clock system. Competitors face 90 minutes of 5+1 blitz games, 60 minutes of 3+1 games, and 30 minutes of 1+1 bullet games. This combination demands versatility across speed formats, from blitz to the fastest bullet chess.

The championship comes with a $250,000 prize pool, making it a significant event on the competitive chess calendar. The tournament serves as the opening qualifier for the Esports World Cup 2027 cycle. Four players will advance from the preliminary rounds to compete in the London final, where the champion will be determined.