The Global Chess League (GCL) returns for its much-awaited third season, and the FYERS American Gambits have wasted no time in setting the tone.
The franchise officially confirmed that Hikaru Nakamura, one of the world’s most influential and electrifying chess superstars, will arrive in Mumbai on Sunday morning to lead the team as its Icon player. The news ends weeks of speculation and injects a surge of excitement into what promises to be the most competitive GCL season yet.
The American Gambits, appearing for the second time in the league, will field one of the strongest squads on paper. Nakamura is joined by an elite and diverse lineup: Superstar Women player Bibisara Assaubayeva, Superstar Men Richard Rapport and Vladislav Artemiev, Superstar Women Teodora Injac, and current World Rapid Champion Volodar Murzin. With experience, flair, and youth blended into one unit, the franchise arrives at Mumbai’s historic Royal Opera House with sky-high ambitions.
Their opening clash is as grand as it gets against PBG Alaskan Knights, a team led by reigning World Champion Gukesh D. The Hikaru vs Gukesh showdown is already being billed as the blockbuster of opening night, a duel between two players who have dominated headlines and fan discussions across 2025.
A Star Arrives: “Hikaru Will Lead an Exciting Team”
Reacting to the confirmation of Nakamura’s participation, franchise co-owner Prachura PP expressed both pride and anticipation for the season ahead.
“We are delighted to confirm Hikaru’s participation. He will be donning the FYERS American Gambits shirt and leading an incredibly exciting team. Our first match is against Gukesh’s team, and it is going to be a thrilling contest that sets the momentum for us. We’re looking forward to the season.”
Nakamura’s presence is more than symbolic his experience in rapid and blitz formats, combined with his recent form, makes him one of the most dangerous players in the league. His leadership is expected to be central to the American Gambits’ plans, both on and off the board.
Coach Srinath Narayanan: “Hikaru Gives Us a Slight Edge”
Head Coach GM Srinath Narayanan echoed the excitement while offering a tactician’s insight into the team’s prospects.
Read Articles Without Ads On Your IndiaSportsHub App. Download Now And Stay Updated
“We can confirm Hikaru is coming, and the matchup between him and Gukesh is one everyone will be watching closely. They’ve had several exciting battles this year, usually very evenly fought. It will be one of the most anticipated duels of the season.”
He acknowledged that while both players are equally capable of brilliance, Nakamura’s mastery in shorter formats could tilt the scales.
“I do feel we have a slight edge because Hikaru is more experienced in shorter time formats, but anything can happen on the day.”
A Strong Squad, A Stronger Resolve
Beyond the headline reunion between Hikaru and the American Gambits, the team boasts depth across all categories. Richard Rapport brings creativity and unpredictability, Artemiev offers stability and speed, Assaubayeva and Injac strengthen the women’s lineup, and Murzin fresh off his triumph as World Rapid Champion—adds youthful brilliance.
Srinath emphasized the confidence within the camp:
“With the new season being hosted in India, we’re very excited. On paper, we are one of the strongest teams, with one of the highest average ratings. We have champions across the board, including the current World Rapid Champion Murzin. The squad looks solid and promising.”
Eyes on the Trophy
Following their opener, the American Gambits face a challenging sequence of fixtures—upGrad Mumbai Masters, Triveni Continental Kings, Alpine SG Pipers, and Ganges Grandmasters. Navigating this group will demand both consistency and composure, something the management believes the team is ready for.
Co-owner Prachura outlined the franchise’s aspirations clearly:
“Our primary aim is to win the trophy. We have champion players across categories, one of the highest total ratings in the league, and we want everyone performing at their full potential. The mix of experience and young firepower gives us the balance needed to compete deep into the season. The team environment is strong, the preparation has been meticulous, and we believe this is the year we can make a real statement.”
FYERS American Gambits Squad, GCL Season 3
Hikaru Nakamura, Richard Rapport, Vladislav Artemiev, Bibisara Assaubayeva, Teodora Injac, Volodar Murzin
As the Royal Opera House gears up for a festival of world-class chess, the arrival of Hikaru Nakamura and the confidence flowing through the FYERS American Gambits makes one thing clear: Season 3 is set to begin with intensity, ambition, and fireworks both on and off the board.
