Chess Grandmasters
Grandmaster directory
The FIDE Grandmaster Directory
Grandmaster is the highest title a chess player can earn, awarded for life by FIDE, the international chess federation. This directory profiles FIDE grandmasters - browse by name or country, and study the players whose games shaped modern chess.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a chess grandmaster?
Grandmaster (GM) is the highest title in chess, awarded for life by FIDE, the international chess federation. It normally requires a FIDE rating of 2500 and three grandmaster norms - strong performances in elite tournaments.
How many chess grandmasters are there?
FIDE has awarded the grandmaster title to around two thousand players worldwide since it was formalised in 1950 - a tiny fraction of the millions who play rated chess.
Why study grandmaster games?
Grandmaster games show the highest level of planning, calculation and technique. Following a grandmaster whose style you enjoy, and replaying their games, is one of the oldest and most effective ways to improve.