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BETBY to host first blindfolded chess match between Carlsen and Nakamura at ICE Barcelona
BETBY has revealed that, for the first time ever, a blindfolded chess match will be taking place between two of the most influential chess players in the history of the sport, as Magnus Carlsen and Hikaru Nakamura will be facing off in the landmark match at ICE Barcelona 2026.
Following the recent announcement that Carlsen, Nakamura, and Levy Rozman (GothamChess) will be appearing together publicly in Europe for the first time, BETBY has further confirmed a series of exclusive on-stage events that elevate the action into a true once-in-a-lifetime moment.
Landmark event for chess
BETBY stated that the highlight of the occasion will be an unprecedented blindfold exhibition match between Carlsen and Nakamura, describing it as a historic encounter which has never before taken place. It added that the spectacle will be brought to life by Rozman, whose distinctive commentary style has made him the world’s most influential chess entertainer, having amassed over 7 million subscribers on YouTube. His live play-by-play will guide the audience through the extraordinary challenge of seeing two of the greatest minds in chess compete without sight of the board.
Alongside the blindfold match, BETBY will also host a set of interactive exhibition games in which ICE delegates will have the rare chance to sit across the board from global chess icons. These matches will blend high-level entertainment with genuine competitive insight, offering delegates a first-hand experience of elite decision-making under pressure.
The activation will further feature a fireside chat with Carlsen, Nakamura, and Rozman. In this informal, unscripted conversation, the trio will explore themes of strategic thinking, precision, mental discipline, and the evolution of chess as both a sport and a digital entertainment phenomenon. With GothamChess steering the discussion in his trademark energetic style, attendees can expect deep insights, unexpected moments, and plenty of personality.
Leaders Choose Leaders
These elements reinforce the significance of BETBY’s activation, which forms the centrepiece of the supplier’s global brand campaign with Magnus Carlsen, “Leaders Choose Leaders”.
The campaign is built around the idea that true leaders seek out excellence, a message embodied in bringing together three of the most impactful figures in modern chess.
“We wanted to create something truly unforgettable for ICE Barcelona, and this line-up of events achieves exactly that,” said Pierre Pulis, Marketing Director at BETBY. “A blindfold match between Magnus and Hikaru is the kind of moment that you can hardly imagine seeing, and that’s exactly what we wanted to provide to ICE attendees. Coupled with Levy’s unmatched ability to bring emotion and clarity to the game, this will be a historic experience not just for chess fans, but for the entire iGaming community.”
The activation will take place at 12:00 pm on Day 2 (20 January) at BETBY’s stand 5K20 in Fira Barcelona Gran Via.
BETBY invites all ICE delegates, chess enthusiasts, and industry professionals to witness this groundbreaking showcase, where elite talent, strategy, and entertainment converge.
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