Appointment reinforces franchise’s global ambitions, as chess continues evolution into globally scalable, commercially compelling and culturally influential sport
FYERS American Gambits set to compete at Global Chess League 2026 in Bengaluru in September with roster of Indian and international stars including Javokhir Sindarov, Nihal Sarin and Daniil Dubov
Bengaluru, 17 August 2026: FYERS American Gambits, one of the leading franchises in the Global Chess League, has announced that football icon and entrepreneur Gerard Piqué has joined the franchise as a strategic shareholder, reflecting the organisation’s long-term ambition to contribute to the continued global growth of chess.
A FIFA World Cup winner with Spain and one of the most decorated players of his generation, Piqué brings a deep understanding of elite sport, global fan communities and innovative sports ventures. His appointment reflects the franchise’s global ambitions and the growing appeal of chess as a sport with the potential to build a truly international ecosystem spanning competition, technology, entertainment and culture.
As chess enters a new era of global growth, increasingly positioned at the intersection of competitive excellence, technology, entertainment and popular culture, FYERS American Gambits is building a franchise designed for the future of the sport. Backed by a group of strategic shareholders that includes former international cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin, the franchise will compete in its third Global Chess League season this September 3rd-13th in Bangalore with a world-class roster including Javokhir Sindarov, Nihal Sarin, Daniil Dubov, Bibisara Assaubayeva, Sara Khadem and Marc’Andria Maurizzi, under the leadership of GM Srinath Narayanan.
Prachura PP, CEO and Co-owner, FYERS American Gambits, said: “Gerard Piqué’s investment in FYERS American Gambits is a landmark moment for our franchise and, we believe, for the evolution of chess as a global sport. Gerard understands what it takes to build a global sporting property one that combines elite competition with compelling storytelling, passionate communities and a strong connection with fans. His belief in our vision is incredibly meaningful as we look to build a franchise that can represent the future of chess.
“Chess today is at an inflection point. The talent is extraordinary, the audience is growing rapidly and the sport has all the ingredients to become a truly global phenomenon. We want FYERS American Gambits to be at the centre of that transformation bringing together the best players, ambitious partners and a new generation of fans. Gerard joining us is a powerful validation of that vision and opens up exciting possibilities for what we can build together.”
Yashas Khoday, Co-founder and Chief Product Officer, FYERS, said: “Football became a global game because it found ways to connect with fans everywhere. We believe chess has that same potential, and having someone like Gerard, who’s lived that journey with football, backing us makes that goal feel a lot more real. This is just the start of what we think chess can become.”
Gerard Piqué said: “Throughout my career, I’ve always been interested in projects that rethink how sport connects with fans. Chess has fascinated me for a long time because of its depth, its global appeal and the incredible mental strength it demands. What attract me to FYERS American Gambits is the ambition to take chess to a new level and its long-term vision for the sport. I’m pleased to join as a strategic shareholder and wish the team every success in the season ahead.”
The announcement comes at a time of unprecedented global momentum for chess, driven by a new generation of players, the rise of digital platforms and innovative competition formats that are introducing the sport to broader audiences worldwide. The Global Chess League has played a leading role in this evolution through its team-based franchise model, bringing together many of the world’s top players and creating new ways for fans to engage with the sport.
Bringing together world-class talent, experienced leadership and long-term strategic backing, FYERS American Gambits reflects the growing international momentum behind chess and its emergence as an increasingly global sports and entertainment property
