The Chess Bundesliga returns this weekend for the 2026/27 season, and SC Viernheim and OSG Baden-Baden enter as the heavy favorites after last year's title race. Viernheim won the championship, but Baden-Baden remains a threat with star power that includes Viswanathan Anand and Vincent Keymer in their lineup.
Three teams earned promotion from the second division. SV Erkenschwick 1923 makes their debut in the top flight, while SF Bad Mergentheim and SC Remagen Sinzig return after previous stints at the highest level.
The league promises comprehensive live commentary throughout the season, giving fans full access to the action as it unfolds. With Viernheim defending their crown and Baden-Baden equipped with world-class talent, the title race shapes up as a two-horse fight. Erkenschwick's arrival adds intrigue. New teams often struggle with the step up in strength, but they earned their promotion through legitimate results in the second division. Whether they can hold their own remains the real question.
This season will test whether Viernheim can repeat or if Baden-Baden finally breaks through with their loaded roster.