Algorand and World Chess Propose Blockchain-Based “Global Chess Passport”

World Chess and the Algorand Foundation have unveiled a major initiative to transform identity management in chess. In a whitepaper released this week, the two organizations proposed a blockchain-powered “global chess passport” — a decentralized identity system that would allow players to securely manage their credentials across platforms and tournaments.

Using decentralized identifiers (DIDs) and standardized data models, the proposed system would enable players to port their achievements, rankings, and rewards seamlessly across both online and offline competitions. The goal is to improve transparency, security, and accessibility within the chess community without compromising user privacy.

How It Works

The universal chess passport would act as a verifiable, portable record of a player’s career. It would eliminate the need for multiple logins and repeated identity verifications across different chess platforms.

For tournament organizers, the system would simplify the verification of player identities, help maintain rating integrity, and combat fraud and cheating — growing concerns as online tournaments become more prominent.

“This initiative is not just about chess; it’s about the future of fair play and verifiable achievement across all sports and esports,” said Bruno Martins, principal architect at the Algorand Foundation.

A Collaborative Effort

The project was developed with input from chess grandmaster Evgenij Miroshnichenko and reviewed by experts from the Decentralized Identity Foundation. It has been designed to integrate seamlessly into the existing chess ecosystem while offering a path for broader adoption across esports and traditional sports.

World Chess CEO Ilya Merenzon emphasized the importance of the move: “Chess needs its version of a global, e-verifiable ID — much like a digital driver’s license. Blockchain technology provides a powerful, secure way to make this possible.”

Timing and Industry Trends

The initiative arrives at a time of renewed global interest in chess, spurred by popular TV shows and the upcoming inclusion of chess in the Esports World Cup. The esports industry itself is projected to reach nearly $4.8 billion by 2025, highlighting the demand for more robust digital identity systems across competitive gaming.

As online fraud, cheating, and identity concerns grow, World Chess and Algorand believe blockchain can provide the transparency and security the industry urgently needs.