The 2018 World Chess Championship has unveiled its logo, to some scrutiny.

It is seen as a key visual for the 2018 competition, which will take place in London next November.

However questions (and eyebrows) are being raised over exactly what it looks like.

It appears to show two chess players locked in the heat of the game, with their arms and legs interlocking as well.

Organisers say the logo is "controversial and trendy, just like the host city."

"We rarely stop to think about the brand of the World Chess Championship Match, because we are more interested in the players and the drama of the games.

"But the match, the ultimate event that defines who is the smartest person on the planet, has much wider appeal than chess professionals.

Image: worldchess.com

"It affects politics, business, and, of course, design.

"As organisers of the match we've been busy for over a year working with artists and designers to develop a perfect key visual, the image that will be associated with the 2018 match and which will find its way onto mugs, posters, outdoor displays, venue design, media, broadcasting graphics and more."

It has been developed by Shuka Design.

Commenting on the design, organisers say: "The idea is to make the World Chess Championship match to go beyond chess circles and claim a space in design, business and politics.

"Amazing design by Shuka Design and (hopefully) dramatic games will help to make the 2018 match historic."