Garry Kasparov
Former world chess champion
*Fees are a guide only. Exact cost will be dependent on requirements and are subject to change.
About Garry Kasparov
During his career, Garry defended the World Chess Championship title five times, including his renowned series of matches against long-time rival Anatoly Karpov. In 1990 he surpassed Bobby Fischer’s chess rating record, and his peak rating remained unbeaten until 2013. His matches against IBM’s Deep Blue supercomputer in 1996 and 1997 played a major role in bringing both artificial intelligence and chess into mainstream global discussion.
Following his chess career, Garry became an internationally recognised commentator, author and speaker focusing on strategy, decision-making, technology, innovation and politics. A contributing editor to The Wall Street Journal since 1991, he is also a frequent commentator on global politics and human rights issues.
Garry regularly speaks to corporate and leadership audiences around the world on subjects including strategic thinking, peak mental performance, innovation and the future impact of technology and artificial intelligence. In 2013 he was named a Senior Visiting Fellow at the Oxford Martin School.
He is the author of several acclaimed books including How Life Imitates Chess, which explores leadership and decision-making, alongside the respected chess series My Great Predecessors and Modern Chess. Known for his intellectual insight, analytical thinking and engaging speaking style, Garry delivers keynote talks that combine practical strategy with broader perspectives on business, technology and global affairs.
To book Keynote Speaker Garry Kasparov, contact The Speakers Agency on +44(0)1332 810481 or email enquiries@thespeakersagency.com
Understanding Your Own Process
Garry Kasparov explores how effective decision-making is shaped not by status or position, but by process. Using examples ranging from politics and business to military leadership, he examines how individuals approach choices under pressure and uncertainty. Audiences gain insight into their own decision-making tendencies, learning how to better understand their strengths, weaknesses and thought patterns in order to improve performance and judgement.
Leadership
Drawing on his experience competing at the highest level of global chess and public life, Garry Kasparov examines the true nature of leadership. He argues that leadership is not about authority or power, but about vision, determination and courage. The session explores the importance of decisive thinking, innovation and resilience, particularly when navigating uncertainty and change.
Asking the Right Questions
In a world dominated by data and technology, Garry Kasparov highlights the enduring importance of human intuition, curiosity and critical thinking. He explores how success often depends not on having the most information, but on asking the right questions. Combining insights from chess, technology and leadership, he demonstrates why human judgement remains essential in an increasingly data-driven world.
Decision Making
Garry Kasparov challenges the idea that there is a universal formula for success or better decision-making. Instead, he explores how decision-making is deeply personal and shaped by individual strengths, weaknesses and experiences. Through stories from chess and beyond, he explains the importance of self-awareness, preparation and understanding one’s own thinking processes in order to make better decisions under pressure.
Human + Machine: The Future of Computer Technology
Using the famous “freestyle chess” experiment as a case study, Garry Kasparov explores how the future lies not in humans competing against machines, but in humans working alongside them. He demonstrates how strong collaboration between people and technology can outperform even the most advanced systems operating alone. The session examines the evolving relationship between artificial intelligence, human intuition and decision-making in the modern world.
Chess, Technology & Risk-Taking in Education
Garry Kasparov explores how education must evolve to meet the demands of a rapidly changing technological world. Drawing on examples from chess, innovation and digital transformation, he discusses the importance of creativity, adaptability and risk-taking in learning. He argues that traditional educational approaches are no longer sufficient for preparing future generations to navigate the speed and complexity of the modern information age.
Here you can find links to books by Garry Kasparov. For bulk book orders for your event please speak with a member of the team.
Client Feedback
"I have had the pleasure of hosting Garry Kasparov as a speaker on two occasions in London. His content and delivery is second to none — having enjoyed presentations from Nobel Prize winners, former Presidents and Global Political and Business Leaders – very few compare to Garry Kasparov. Not only would I wholeheartedly endorse Garry, I will be inviting him back to speak again this year."
Chief Executive Officer - PI Capital
