Alpine SG Pipers claimed their maiden Global Chess League title after overpowering defending champions in a Mumbai final.
Mumbai
In a memorable finale to Season 3 of the Global Chess League (GCL), Indian Grandmasters R Praggnanandhaa and Anish Giri led Alpine SG Pipers to a historic triumph, defeating defending champions Triveni Continental Kings in the finals held in Mumbai on Sunday. The Pipers sealed the championship with commanding performances across two matches, winning 4–2 in the first and 4.5–1.5 in the second, to lift their first-ever GCL title.
The opening match saw the Pipers assert early control in a fiercely contested battle. World number-two Alireza Firouzja delivered a standout performance, outplaying Fabiano Caruana in a sharp tactical encounter that set the tone for the team. Triveni Continental Kings attempted a comeback, but the Pipers responded decisively, with Anish Giri producing a positional masterclass against Wei Yi, underlining his experience and composure on the big stage.
With momentum firmly on their side, Alpine SG Pipers entered the second match knowing that discipline and precision would be key. Rising Indian star Praggnanandhaa rose to the occasion when it mattered most, defeating Vidit Gujrathi in a crisp 35-move tactical showcase that drew admiration from fans and experts alike. His victory not only widened the gap on the scoreboard but also symbolised the growing confidence of India’s young chess talents in elite global competitions.
Anish Giri emerged as the most valuable player of the finals, winning both his games with the black pieces—an achievement that highlighted his strategic depth and preparation. His calm execution under pressure proved decisive in tilting the finals firmly in the Pipers’ favour.
The triumph marks a significant milestone for Alpine SG Pipers and adds another glittering chapter to the rapidly growing Global Chess League. With electrifying matches, star-studded line-ups, and a passionate audience in Mumbai, the 2025 season concluded by reinforcing chess’s expanding appeal as a spectator sport in India and beyond.