Why is Chess not an Olympic sport?

Chess is considered to be one of the oldest games played in the history of mankind. While there surely are multiple theories on where and how Chess originated, one cannot deny that it is one of the most intellectual games out there. From complex calculations to finding patterns, a single game of Chess possesses the ability to completely drain out a player.

Despite being one of the most played games across the world, Chess has failed to make its way into the Olympics. It is not that the top governing body of Chess, FIDE, has not pushed for its inclusion; in fact, it has on multiple occasions, but without any success.

But, why is Chess not an Olympic sport?

The rudimentary argument provided for this is the fact that Chess is not a sport. A sport, by definition, is an activity wherein the body is put through some overt physical athleticism. The 'physical athleticism' is something many consider to be missing in Chess. Yes, Chess requires you to be on top of your mental strength, but the body of a chess player does not undergo any overt physical activity while playing a match.

But, the fact remains that back in the year 1999, when Chess was the closest it has ever been in its bid to be included in the Olympics, the IOC had recognized it as a sport. Moreover, even the World Chess Federation or FIDE is recognized by the IOC.

Besides, Chess is also one of the most universal sports in the world. The 2014 Chess Olympiad, which was played in Norway, had witnessed players from around 170 countries competing for the top honors. Surely, not many sports can boast of such widespread reach.

Despite all these, Chess continues to struggle for recognition as an Olympic sport, plainly on the grounds that it does not involve athleticism.
All Olympic Games are tests of physical abilities. Chess is a test of mental ability. So chess has it's own competitions, apart from sports.

Why should chess not be a sport?

Cambridge Dictionary defines 'sport' as 'a game, competition, or activity needing physical effort and skill that is played or done according to rules, for enjoyment and/or as a job'. According to this definition, chess does not assimilate with the term 'sport' as physical exertion is not something the game requires

Why is chess not just a game?

Chess is NOT a sport because players do not compete based on athletic prowess. Chess is rather a game of the mind that has sport-like properties such as competitiveness, skill, international recognition, and doping controls.

Is chess player an athlete?

An athlete is anyone who competes in an athletic sport such as Track and Field. Although chess can be physically exerting after long hours of play, chess players are NOT athletes because they do not compete based on athletic prowess.

Does chess help with sports?

Chess taught me to strive to make the best possible decisions even in times of uncertainty and chaos. I strongly believe that being even remotely familiar with this intellectual game will not only improve your performance but also bring mental benefits to your physical sports. Happy playing!