Tag: AICF

Sports

Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant Inaugurates FIDE World Cup Goa 2025 at Taleigao

allycaralgoa

Goa marked a proud moment in its sporting history as Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant inaugurated the FIDE World Cup Goa 2025 at the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium, Taleigao.

The grand opening ceremony was organized by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, Government of Goa, and the Sports Authority of Goa, in collaboration with FIDE (The International Chess Federation) and the All India Chess Federation (AICF).

The event witnessed the presence of several distinguished guests, including Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Sports Minister Shri Ramesh Tawadkar, FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich, Chief Secretary Dr. V. Candavelou, IAS, Rajya Sabha MP Shri Sadanand Shet Tanavade, MLA Shri Nilesh Cabral, AICF President Shri Nitin Narang, Secretary (Sports) Shri Santosh Sukhadev, IAS, and Director (Sports) Dr. Ajay Gaude, among others.

In a symbolic moment of pride and unity, Chief Minister Dr. Sawant and Union Minister Dr. Mandaviya, along with the dignitaries, unveiled the FIDE World Cup 2025 Trophy, marking the official commencement of the tournament.

The FIDE World Cup Goa 2025 brings together some of the world’s finest chess grandmasters and rising talents, shining a global spotlight on Goa as a premier destination for international sporting events.

The tournament will run until November 27, 2025, with participants from across the world competing for top honors in the prestigious championship.

This event reinforces Goa’s growing reputation as a dynamic hub for international sports and youth development, blending tradition, intellect, and excellence.

Events in Goa

Goa to Host Historic FIDE World Cup 2025 with 206 Players and $2 Million Prize Pool

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

Chess returns to the global spotlight as the FIDE World Cup 2025 heads to Goa, India, from October 30 to November 27. In a high-stakes, eight-round knockout format, 206 of the world’s strongest players will compete for a $2 million prize fund and three coveted spots in the 2026 Candidates Tournament.

India’s chess rise has been nothing short of meteoric. Last year, Gukesh Dommaraju stunned the world by becoming World Champion. More recently, Divya Deshmukh captured the Women’s World Cup title, marking a new era in Indian chess. With both the Open and Women’s teams winning gold at the Chess Olympiad, India has firmly established itself as a global powerhouse.

 Goa, known for its serene beaches, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, offers the perfect backdrop for this world-class tournament. For fans, it’s the ideal setting to witness elite chess alongside a rich cultural experience. For players, it’s a unique blend of focus and inspiration.

Tournament Format

  • Dates: October 30 – November 27, 2025
  • Players: 206
  • Format: Eight-round knockout
  • Top 50 seeds start in Round 2
  • Match Structure: Two classical games; if tied, rapid & blitz playoffs
  • Top 3 Finishers: Qualify for the 2026 Candidates Tournament

Leadership Statements

Arkady Dvorkovich, FIDE President:

“India has become one of the strongest chess nations. Hosting the World Cup in Goa is a celebration of this growth and the global appeal of chess.”

Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India:

“India is delighted to host the prestigious FIDE World Cup 2025. I am sure this tournament will showcase thrilling matches and the brilliance of top players from around the world.”

Nitin Narang, AICF President:

“This is a proud moment for Indian chess. The World Cup in Goa will inspire millions and reflect India’s stature as a global hub for the game.”

 With more than 90 countries expected to be represented, the FIDE World Cup 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most widely watched and celebrated chess events in history.

Chess fans around the world—mark your calendars. Goa is calling, and the board is set.