The First Interactive Community Chess Simul
On 20 March 2022, a new chapter was written in chess history with the launch of the world’s first interactive community chess simul, the Judit Polgar vs The World project. Created in collaboration with the Hungarian Pavilion at Dubai Expo 2020 and supported by the Judit Polgar Chess Foundation, the event invited the entire world to “sit down together virtually” and challenge Judit LIVE.
During the online 11-board simul, ten influencers with a combined following of over 6 million people, as well as the World Board – powered by community voting from all over the world – played against Judit on automated chessboards in real time. In addition to the well-known international creators, a dedicated children’s community board also took part, and in line with the “2022 – Year of Women in Chess” initiative, a women’s chess community played on another board.
Participation reached truly global scale: from Canada to India, users from 77 countries cast their votes for the World Board’s next moves. The live show attracted more than 30,000 viewers, and its over nine hours of broadcasting maintained a vibrant and inspiring atmosphere throughout—both in the studio and across online chat platforms.
The simul concluded with Judit winning against the World Board, while her matches against the influencers ended with 5 victories and 5 draws.
Participating Influencers and Communities
The project united some of the world’s most active and beloved online chess communities:
- Agadmator
- Samay Raina
- Rey Enigma
- Pepe Cuenca
- Keti Tsatsalashvili
- Jennifer Shahade + US Chess Girls Club
- Magnus Chess Academy
- Anna Cramling
- Anna Rudolf
- Otzdarva
- …and of course, the World Board, guided collectively by viewers’ decisions
International Recognition
The innovative significance of the event was highlighted by global chess leadership. Arkady Dvorkovich, President of FIDE, stated:
“This event can be regarded as a milestone in the global promotion of chess, offering a unique experience to a record number of participants thanks to its innovative and brand new format. I am curious about the final result, but even more so eager to enjoy the sportive tension and excitement that will be in the air while the world will be challenging the legendary chess queen Judit.”
Awards
