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Endeavor CEO Ari Emanuel
Amy Sussman/Getty Images
WME has signed Chess.com, which bills itself as the world’s largest online platform for the game.
As part of the signing, the entertainment agency will work with Chess.com to expand the popularity of chess across digital media, fashion, film, food, music, sports, television and theater. The goal is to develop non-scripted content, including documentaries, build “celebrity-centric moments” and create other crossover content.
Endeavor, which is the owner of WME, also made a strategic investment in Chess.com. WME will act as Chess.com’s exclusive sales agency of record for global partnerships.
“Chess.com is committed to serving our community and growing the game,” said Erik Allebest, co-founder and CEO of Chess.com, which hosts more than 10 million games daily. “This partnership and strategic investment from Endeavor will be a major catalyst in helping us create more amazing experiences for the hundreds of millions of chess players worldwide through unique collaborations, content, and competitions.”
This adds to Endeavor’s portfolio, which in addition to WME, includes IMG, the Open Bet sports betting service, live events business On Location, advertising creative agency 160 Over 90, Professional Bull Riders, the Frieze Art Fair and the Miami Open tennis tournament. The company also owns a majority stake in TKO Group, which owns and operates the UFC and WWE.
“Chess.com’s unique community, content, and competition is a driving force behind chess’ increasing popularity,” said Ariel Emanuel, CEO of Endeavor. “We are excited to help further expand their reach and bring more fans to the game via content development, brand partnerships, events, premium experiences, media rights, and licensing opportunities.”
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