Strong fieldMagnus Carlsen returns as defending champion after winning the inaugural chess competition at last year's Esports World Cup in Riyadh. Fourteen players have qualified directly for the 16-player group stage, while the remaining two spots will be decided in an eight-player Play-In on Tuesday. Live commentaryStream AStream BGamesThe top two players from the Play-In qualify for the 16-player group stage:The group stage will reduce the field from 16 to eight players in a double-elimination format. The remaining players will then advance to the knockout playoffs. The rapid format uses the same time control as last year's Esports World Cup.