Hikaru Nakamura to Lead American Gambits as Global Chess League Season 3 Begins in Mumbai
The Global Chess League (GCL) is set to return for its third season at Mumbai’s historic Royal Opera House, with the American Gambits confirming World No. 2 Hikaru Nakamura as their Icon player. Nakamura arrived in Mumbai on Sunday morning, marking his second appearance in the tournament. The team has assembled a strong and diverse lineup featuring Bibisara Assaubayeva, Richard Rapport, Vladislav Artemiev, Teodora Injac, and reigning World Rapid Champion Volodar Murzin.
The American Gambits will begin their campaign against PBG Alaskan Knights, setting up a high-profile encounter between Nakamura and current World Champion Gukesh D. Their past matchups throughout the year have produced closely contested games, making this one of the most anticipated clashes of the opening round.
The team’s schedule also includes fixtures against Mumbai Masters, Continental Kings, SG Pipers, and Ganges Grandmasters. With a roster that combines top-tier experience and rising talent, the American Gambits enter the season as one of the highest-rated teams in the league.
The squad’s leadership believes the mix of strategic depth, rapid-play expertise and youthful energy positions them strongly for a title run. With players holding accolades across classical, rapid and blitz formats, the team aims to set the tone early and build momentum through the opening stage of the competition.
Nakamura’s presence, along with a solid supporting lineup, is expected to attract significant attention as the league unfolds.
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The Global Chess League continues to elevate team chess with star-studded lineups, and the American Gambits appear poised for a serious title challenge. With Hikaru Nakamura leading a balanced squad of seasoned champions and rising stars, the team has the consistency and competitive depth needed to push far this season. Their opening clash against Gukesh’s squad could define early momentum and shape the narrative of GCL Season 3.