World Chess and Algorand Foundation to Develop Blockchain-Based Chess Passport System
World Chess and Algorand Foundation have introduced a blockchain-based system to establish secure, private, and verifiable credentials for global sports organizations, with a particular focus on chess. Grandmaster Evgenij Miroshnichenko collaborated on this initiative.
The timing aligns with chess's growing popularity, fueled by successful TV series, the appointment of the youngest-ever world chess champion in 2024, and chess's debut in the upcoming Esports World Cup.
The proposed system offers several key benefits:
- Single decentralized ID for players across all chess platforms and organizations
- Seamless transfer of achievements, rankings, and records between online and in-person events
- Simplified tournament registration process
- Enhanced fair play protection against AI usage and player impersonation
- Secure tournament payout system
- Privacy preservation while maintaining credential verification
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"I think that chess needs its version of the global e-version of drivers license. It's a global game, and using blockchain for the benefit of having one universal independently verifiable ID is something that both players and organizers will certainly benefit from," states Ilya Merenzon, CEO of World Chess.
Bruno Martins, principal architect at the Algorand Foundation, adds: "This initiative is not just about chess; it's about the future of fair play and verifiable achievement across all sports and esports. Chess has a rich history of proving the usefulness of new technologies."
The esports market is projected to reach $4.8 billion by 2025, with nearly 900 million players expected by 2029. This system could benefit the entire esports ecosystem by providing improved cross-platform registration capabilities.
Interested organizations can contribute to this open-source project by contacting [email protected].
About World Chess: World Chess (LSE: CHSS) is FIDE's official commercial partner, known for organizing World Chess Championship Matches and developing chessarena.com. The company trades on the London Stock Exchange under LSE:CHSS.
About Algorand Foundation: The Algorand Foundation supports blockchain infrastructure development, offering comprehensive support to builders and entrepreneurs. Their platform features low fees, instant finality, and minimal carbon footprint, serving millions of users globally.
Media Contact: [email protected]
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