Watch: Betby ambassador Magnus Carlsen on bridging the gap with esports

Rami Gabriel January 20, 2025

SiGMA news

Sven Magnus Øen Carlsen, the Norwegian chess grandmaster and former world champion from 2013 to 2023, continues to redefine the boundaries of chess. Carlsen shares during an interview with SiGMA about his illustrious career, forward-thinking views on the integration of chess with esports, and his collaboration with BETBY to explore new opportunities in traditional games. With a peak FIDE rating of 2882—the highest in history—Carlsen has held the world No. 1 position since July 2011. His illustrious career includes five World Chess Championship titles, seven World Blitz Chess Championships, and five World Rapid Chess Championships, underscoring his dominance across formats.

Carlsen has been a proponent of integrating chess with the evolving esports industry, recognising how technological advancements are reshaping the game. “Overall, the technological advancements have made chess less of a mystery to solve. Players now have access to information and strategies like never before,” he commented in an exclusive interview with a SiGMA. Carlsen envisions a future where chess can merge its traditional and online formats to create an engaging, fan-centric experience. He remarked, “As a chess player, I want fans in the arena to be as loud as they want and to make it something special. Chess has always been played in quiet settings, but I think we can do more.”

Liam O’Brien from SiGMA’s Media Sales team had the privilege of playing a chess match with Carlsen. Reflecting on the experience, O’Brien shared, “I am extremely honoured and excited to play a game against the reigning world champion. For something like this, I would normally be a little nervous; however, given I know I have no chance of winning, I am just looking forward to the experience. I am grateful to BETBY for giving me a chance to meet someone whose career I have followed for many years.”

Collaborating with Carlsen is exploring new avenues where traditional games intersect with betting and esports. Reflecting on this partnership, he shared, “My collaboration with BETBY has been taking shape for the last year. We’ve been learning about each other, and I am very happy to be part of the journey BETBY is on.” Carlsen’s passion for innovation in chess, combined with his adaptability, sets a blueprint for the game’s future within broader digital and competitive landscapes.

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