The Esports World Cup 2026 is back, bigger than ever, with a year-round qualification cycle that changes the landscape of chess esports. In this episode of the Maverick Chess Podcast, we break down everything you need to know: the expansion of the Champions Chess Tour, new qualification routes through Titled Tuesday, the Speed Chess Championship, and the Global Championship, plus what it means to have Magnus Carlsen defending his crown. With huge prize funds, live finals, and nonstop action, this season promises to be the most exciting in chess history.

In Episode 4, I take a critical look at the FIDE Candidates qualification system in both the Open and Women’s cycles. From the FIDE Circuit—where rapid and blitz events can count towards qualification and closed, invite-only tournaments can heavily influence results—to the Grand Swiss and World Cup pathways, I explore how different formats shape the field of challengers. I also examine the successes of the system, highlighting the players who have already secured their spots, while questioning whether the current approach always produces the best possible challengers.

For the first time ever, chess is part of the Esports World Cup — and it’s a massive milestone for the game. In this debut episode of the Maverick Chess Podcast, we break down everything you need to know about the EWC Chess 2025 event: from the $1.55 million prize fund and intense format (LCQ, Group Stage, Playoffs) to the star-studded player list featuring Carlsen, Nakamura, Firouzja, and more. Whether you're a chess fan, an esports follower, or both — this is one event you can’t ignore.

In this episode of the Maverick Chess Podcast, I take you inside my preparation for the South African Open 2025 B-Section. I break down the tournament format, share my personal goals, and highlight potential rivals to watch out for. If you're playing in the event or just love South African chess, this preview gives you an honest look at what’s coming and how I’m getting ready—both on and off the board.

Chess is more than just moves on a board—your mindset can make or break your game. In this first episode of the Maverick Chess Podcast, we explore the mental side of chess: how to stay focused, handle pressure, and bounce back from mistakes. Whether you're stuck in a losing streak or trying to level up, these tips will help you stay calm, think clearly, and avoid tilt at the board.