In 2024, at the Third Kingston Invitational held in London, chess fans witnessed history. The game between Billy Fellowes and Peter Lalić became the longest decisive FIDE-rated game ever played, spanning a jaw-dropping 272 moves.
This match wasn’t just about endurance it was a legitimate contest full of ups, downs, and a final, hard-earned result. It shattered the previous record and stirred widespread fascination in the chess community.
- Event: Third Kingston Invitational, London
- Year: 2024
- Total Moves: 272
- Significance: Longest ever FIDE-rated decisive game
The Longest Game in World Championship History
While the Kingston game holds the record for length, the longest game ever played in a World Chess Championship occurred in 2021 during the epic clash between Magnus Carlsen and Ian Nepomniachtchi.
Their Game 6 is legendary for many reasons. Lasting almost 8 hours and spanning 136 moves, it showcased psychological endurance, deep strategy, and an intense endgame struggle. Carlsen finally triumphed after a grueling positional squeeze, and it marked a turning point in the match.
- Event: 2021 World Chess Championship
- Players: Magnus Carlsen vs Ian Nepomniachtchi
- Duration: Nearly 8 hours
- Total Moves: 136
- Result: Carlsen won