Uzbekistan’s 19-year-old GM Javokhir Sindarov created history in Panaji by defeating China’s GM Wei Yi in the second rapid tiebreak game to win the FIDE World Cup 2025. The victory makes him the youngest-ever World Cup champion and the first from Uzbekistan to claim the title.
Chinese GM Wei Yi held GM Javokhir Sindarov to a solid draw with black in the first game of the FIDE World Cup 2025 final, while GM Andrey Esipenko defeated GM Nodirbek Yakubboev to take the lead in the battle for third place and a potential Candidates spot.
GM P Harikrishna was knocked out in the Round 5 tiebreaks of the FIDE World Cup 2025, leaving GM Arjun Erigaisi as India’s sole contender. Arjun now advances to the quarterfinals, where he will face China’s GM Wei Yi.
Arjun Erigaisi pressed hard but couldn’t break Levon Aronian’s defence, while P Harikrishna held a comfortable draw against Jose Eduardo Martinez Alcantara in the opening game of Round 5 at the FIDE World Cup 2025 in Panaji. Photo Credit – Eteri Kublashvili / FIDE
India will host the prestigious FIDE Chess World Cup 2025 in Goa from October 31 to November 27, bringing together 206 elite players from 82 countries in a high-stakes knockout format. With a $2 million prize fund and three spots in the 2026 Candidates Tournament up for grabs, the event promises world-class chess action by the beach.
