Chess advocates seek sport recognition in the UK amid rising popularity

Chess fans in the UK are campaigning for formal recognition of the game as a sport, supported by a recent surge in popularity. Over 100 countries, including the International Olympic Committee, classify chess as a sport, but the UK has not yet done so. A Welsh Parliament consultation regarding sports is seen as an opportunity for advocates to push for this change. High-profile athletes, including Erling Haaland and Carlos Alcaraz, have endorsed chess for its mental benefits, contributing to a growing market projected to reach $7.66bn by 2034. The consultation closes soon, and further funding could enhance chess promotion in schools.

• 2:34 PMYahoo Sports — 'The antidote to video games' - chess fans seek to get it recognised as a sport in the UK