Austrian Grandmaster Felix Blohberger has sounded the alarm about the financial challenges facing professional chess players in Europe, especially those who are not in the top 30 rankings. In a recent YouTube video titled “Being a Chess Professional (in Europe) sucks,” he brought attention to how hard it is to make a living through chess and called for important changes to keep the sport thriving.

Financial Struggles for European Players

In his video, Blohberger made it clear that many chess players, especially those ranked outside the elite top 30, are having a tough time earning enough money to support themselves. He explained that the prize money at chess tournaments has remained stagnant for years and doesn’t reflect the costs players face today. This lack of financial support is making it nearly impossible for many talented players to pursue professional chess.

• Blohberger: “You cannot make a living by playing chess if you’re outside the elite circle.”
• He emphasized that the rewards for European chess players are much lower compared to their Asian counterparts.
• The tournament prize money hasn’t increased, making it difficult for players to sustain their careers.

Gap Between European and Asian Chess

One of Blohberger’s main arguments in his video was the significant difference in how much support players receive in different parts of the world. He highlighted how Asian players often receive government support and sponsorship, allowing them to live comfortably from chess. Winner of various prestigious competitions, Asian chess players have been rewarded with substantial prizes, including apartments and cars, something that European players rarely see.

• Blohberger noted the example of a German Grandmaster, Frederik Svane, who received only €3,000 for an impressive individual performance at the Chess Olympiad.
• This disparity raises concerns about the long-term future of chess in Europe and whether it can sustain passionate players.

Blohberger’s Call for Change

The grandmaster is not just voicing his frustrations; he is also asking for action. Blohberger believes that to keep chess alive and vibrant, there must be an increase in tournament prize money. He insists that more recognition and support from governmental organizations could help create a thriving environment for aspiring chess players in Europe.

Community’s Response

The reactions from the chess community to Blohberger’s comments have been mixed. Many young and upcoming players share his concerns and support his vision for a brighter future for chess in Europe. They hope that others in the community will join forces to ensure that financial inequalities are addressed.

• Chess enthusiasts and fans are encouraged to support their local tournaments and players.
• Advocacy for improved financial support can also help keep the sport’s integrity intact.

Conclusion

As chess continues to be a beloved game across the world, the concerns raised by Felix Blohberger highlight important issues that need to be addressed for the sport to thrive, particularly in Europe. Building a supportive environment for players outside the top ranks could help secure the future of chess for generations to come.