Only 22 players in chess history have held the official title of World Champion, 18 of whom were “classical” champions. The classical title follows a linear progression, decided through matches where a challenger must defeat the reigning champion.
FIDE assumed control of the classical World Championship in 1948. However, from 1993 to 2006, the title split when the reigning champion and challenger left FIDE. During this period, six players held the FIDE World Champion title, two of whom were also classical champions.
Classical World Champions (1886-present)
Here’s a list of the classical chess world champions from 1886 to the present, starting from the first official match organized by Wilhelm Steinitz and Johannes Zukertort:
Here’s a list of the classical chess world champions from 1886 to the present, starting from the first official match organized by Wilhelm Steinitz and Johannes Zukertort:
Wilhelm Steinitz (1886–1894)
- The first official World Chess Champion.
- Defeated Johannes Zukertort in the inaugural championship match.
Emanuel Lasker (1894–1921)
- Held the title for 27 years, the longest reign in chess history.
José Raúl Capablanca (1921–1927)
- He is known for his exceptional endgame skills and natural talent.
Alexander Alekhine (1927–1935, 1937–1946)
- The only champion to die while holding the title.
Max Euwe (1935–1937)
- The only Dutch World Champion.
Mikhail Botvinnik (1948–1960, 1961–1963)
- Known as the “Patriarch of Soviet Chess.”
Vasily Smyslov (1957–1958)
- Renowned for his harmonious style.
Mikhail Tal (1960–1961)
- The “Magician from Riga,” famous for his attacking play.
Tigran Petrosian (1963–1969)
- Nicknamed “Iron Tigran” for his impenetrable defense.
Boris Spassky (1969–1972)
- Known for his universal playing style.
Bobby Fischer (1972–1975)
- First and only American to hold the title, famous for his 1972 match against Spassky.
Anatoly Karpov (1975–1985)
- Dominated chess after Fischer’s abdication.
Garry Kasparov (1985–2000)
- Widely regarded as one of the greatest chess players ever
Vladimir Kramnik (2006–2007)
- Unified the titles by defeating Topalov in 2006.
Viswanathan Anand (2007–2013)
- First Indian World Chess Champion, known for his rapid play.
Magnus Carlsen (2013–2023)
- Dominated chess with his versatile style and extraordinary endgame skills.
Ding Liren (2023–Present)
- Became the first Chinese World Champion after defeating Ian Nepomniachtchi in a dramatic 2023 match.
GM Gukesh Dommaraju (2024-present)
- the second from India, and the youngest-ever undisputed champion at the age of 18 years and six months.
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