Kasparov vs Anand: 30 Years Later, Chess Titans Clash Again in ‘Clutch Chess: The Legends’

• By Thetripurapost Sports Desk, St. Louis, USA
• Oct 07, 2025
• 532

Three decades after their historic World Championship face-off in New York, chess legends Viswanathan Anand of India and Garry Kasparov of Russia are set to lock horns once again. The two former world champions will battle it out in the “Clutch Chess: The Legends” tournament, beginning Wednesday in St. Louis.

 Reunion After 30 Years

The iconic duo last met in the 1995 World Championship final, where Kasparov triumphed 10.5–7.5 in a 20-game classical encounter. This time, the stakes are different — faster time controls, increasing rewards, and plenty of nostalgia.

“It’s going to be fun. I think Vishy has a chance to improve his score against me,” Kasparov said ahead of the clash.
“He’s playing excellent chess these days and is very active. I’ve been drifting away from the game a bit, but let’s see if I can hold my own,” the Russian legend added.

 Tournament Format

The Anand–Kasparov match will feature 12 games under the Chess 960 format — a variant that randomizes the starting positions of pieces, testing creativity and adaptability.

Four games will be played each day.

Even if a winner is decided early, all 12 games will be completed.

Both rapid and blitz formats will be used.

Time Controls:

Rapid: 25 minutes per player + 10 seconds per move

Blitz: 5 minutes per player + 3 seconds per move

Clutch Points System

Adding spice to the rivalry, the point value increases daily —

Day 1: Win = 1 point | Draw = 0.5 point

Day 2: Win = 2 points | Draw = 1 point

Day 3: Win = 3 points | Draw = 1.5 points

This “clutch” system means later victories carry more weight — ensuring the battle remains unpredictable till the end.

Prize Money

The total prize pool stands at ₹1.27 crore ($144,000).

Winner: ₹62 lakh ($70,000)

Runner-up: ₹44 lakh ($50,000)

If Tied: ₹53 lakh ($60,000) each

Additionally, ₹21 lakh ($24,000) in bonus rewards will be distributed for individual game wins:

Day 1 win: ₹88,000 ($1,000)

Day 2 win: ₹1.7 lakh ($2,000)

Day 3 win: ₹2.6 lakh ($3,000)

 

 Clash of Eras

As chess fans worldwide prepare for this nostalgic showdown, the match promises not only fireworks over the board but also a celebration of two great minds who have shaped modern chess.

Thirty years later, the rivalry continues — only faster, fiercer, and with even more at stake.