World Chess names Saint Teresa of Avila as Patron Saint of Chess
In a historic moment for the global chess community, World Chess in March 2025 officially introduced Saint Theresa of Avila as the Patron Saint of Chess, bringing the game into a centuries-old tradition of sports and cultural patronage.
Chess is one of the world’s oldest and most intellectually demanding games, World Chess has discovered and now formally introduced St. Teresa of Avila as the Patron Saint of Chess, a move that acknowledges the game’s deep historical and cultural significance—especially in Catholic countries where chess has been a cornerstone of intellectual and social life for centuries.
Saint Teresa of Avila was celebrated as patron saint of chess for years, but this announcement is the first formal recognition of a saint associated with World Chess, placing chess within a broader historical, religious, and cultural framework. We are not talking Sainthood with a capital “S”, since she is already a Saint in the Catholic Church; but rather in a more worldly sense.
Saint Teresa herself used chess as a metaphor for intellectual and spiritual growth, writing that success in life, much like success on the board, depends on careful planning, patience, and understanding long-term consequences. Her teachings align closely with the structured thinking and problem-solving skills that make chess one of the most respected mind sports in the world.
This recognition is particularly significant in Catholic-majority countries, where chess has long been a respected intellectual pursuit. Nations such as Spain, Italy, Poland, Argentina, and the Philippines have deep-rooted chess traditions, with strong federations, legendary grandmasters, and vibrant local scenes that have produced world-class players. The introduction of St. Teresa of Avila as chess’s patron saint further strengthens the cultural connection between the game and Catholic heritage.
“Chess has shaped history, from royal courts to Cold War diplomacy, but in many Catholic countries, it has also been an essential part of education, philosophy, and social life,” said Ilya Merenzon, CEO of World Chess. “Recognizing St. Teresa of Avila as the Patron Saint of Chess is an acknowledgment of the game’s profound intellectual and cultural role, especially in the nations where it has been played for centuries.”
About World Chess:
World Chess is the leading chess company that is developing and reinventing chess for the modern consumer — more than 600 million of them, combining tradition and innovation to create experiences that engage.
To mark the occasion, World Chess is launching a series of initiatives, including:
Official iconography of St. Teresa of Avila as the Patron Saint of Chess
A collector’s edition chess set and first edition of the official icon
A global tournament series in her honor, bringing together top players and rising talents
Cultural and academic discussions on chess’s role in philosophy, history, and education
With chess experiencing a resurgence in popularity—spurred by online platforms, streaming, and mainstream cultural interest—this recognition further cements its status as one of the most enduring intellectual pursuits in history.
About World Chess
World Chess is a global leader in chess innovation, tournaments, and cultural initiatives. By organizing elite competitions, developing new formats, and elevating chess as both a sport and an intellectual pursuit, World Chess is shaping the future of the game. The company’s shares are traded on London Stock Exchange: LSE:CHSS.
Click here for the official website of World Chess.
For media inquiries, interviews, or access to official St. Teresa of Avila, Patron Saint of Chess materials, please contact: media@worldchess.com
To learn more about Saint Teresa of Avila, visit our page here.
And here is an interesting article about the connection between Saint Teresa of Avila and chess, courtesy EWTN.