Hans Niemann Sets New Record at Web Summit for Largest Online Simultaneous Chess Match, Defeats Global Opponents
- by The it.com Domains Team
A historic chess challenge occurred where participants worldwide competed online against rising star Hans Niemann at chess.it.com on November 13, 2024.
The Hans Niemann vs. You chess challenge at Web Summit 2024 became a record-breaking online simultaneous game with over 106,638 people taking part — more than the previous record of 60,000 opponents in a single online game.
The match concluded with Hans’ victory marking a significant moment in the intersection of chess, technology, and global collaboration. The event, organized by it.com Domains in partnership with World Chess and Web Summit, took place on November 13, 2024. This unique match brought together participants from 132 countries, who joined forces with an AI advisor system to take on Grandmaster Hans Niemann in a match that captivated audiences both online and at Web Summit.
Drawing inspiration from Garry Kasparov’s historic matches against the world in 1999, where over 50,000 participants engaged in a game on the MSN Gaming Zone, and his legendary defeat by IBM’s Deep Blue in 1997 — the first time a computer defeated a reigning world champion — this event highlights the potential of collaborative strategy and the evolving capabilities of artificial intelligence in chess. The current record for the most participants in a chess game was held by Viswanathan Anand who defeated over 60,000 opponents, with this event bringing together more than 106,000 players from all over the world surpassing the previous record.
Participants from diverse backgrounds and skill levels united to form the World Team, leveraging an AI system based on the Stockfish engine to guide their moves. With options reflecting Grandmaster, Advanced, and Amateur levels of play, the team made collective decisions through real-time voting. The game consisted of 71 moves and lasted 42 minutes. The game featured an official stream commented by JamIes Canty II, American FIDE master, streamer, and entrepreneur.
Event Highlights
- Global Participation: 106 thousands of chess enthusiasts and novices alike participated in this groundbreaking event, highlighting the universal appeal of chess and the power of technology to unite people across borders.
- AI Integration: The innovative use of AI allowed participants to engage at various skill levels, making the game accessible to all while demonstrating the evolving capabilities of artificial intelligence in strategic thinking.
- Real-Time Engagement: The event featured live voting and move selection, creating an interactive experience that kept audiences engaged throughout the match.
Andrey Insarov, CEO of it.com Domains, expressed his excitement about the event’s success: “We set out to create a memorable experience that blends technology with tradition. This challenge not only showcased Hans Niemann’s exceptional skills but also demonstrated the incredible potential of AI-assisted collaboration.”
Ilya Merenzon, CEO of World Chess, added: “Chess is breaking all records now, and we are thrilled to be part of a sport that serves as a sandbox for new technology and is so captivating that millions play it every day! We invite everyone to join the excitement at our Online Chess Arena and play a game right now!”
Laura O’Neill, SVP of Speakers and Media at Web Summit, remarked: “Hosting this event was a highlight for us. It perfectly encapsulated the spirit of Web Summit—bringing together technology enthusiasts and fostering a sense of community through shared experiences.”
At just 21, Niemann has already climbed to the elite ranks, known for his competitive, dynamic style. He has made significant strides in his career with notable performances at prestigious tournaments like the Sinquefield Cup and winning the U.S. Chess Championships in the Under-20 category.
As a disruptor in the domain market, it.com Domains has reignited interest in third-level domains, offering brands and individuals creative identities in the digital space. This partnership with Web Summit and World Chess marks its latest venture into high-profile collaborations that push boundaries. In the true spirit of inclusivity, it.com Domains has invited participants from any background to join this modern-day duel, uniting fans, tech pros, and novices alike.
For more information about the event please visit chess.it.com.
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