India’s coastal paradise turned into the global capital of chess on Friday evening as the FIDE World Cup 2025 was officially declared open at the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium in Goa.
The grand opening, marked by vibrant performances and cultural displays celebrating India’s deep connection with chess, also witnessed a historic moment the World Cup trophy was officially renamed the Viswanathan Anand Cup, in honour of India’s first world chess champion. The glittering ceremony, attended by top dignitaries including Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, Goa Sports Minister Dr. Ramesh Tawadkar, FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich, and AICF President Nitin Narang, set the tone for what promises to be one of the most competitive editions in the event’s history.
The evening began with a letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, read out by AICF President Nitin Narang, officially declaring the tournament open. The Prime Minister wrote:
“As the Chess World Cup returns to the home of chess, it feels as though the game has come full circle. India’s growing role as a host to major international sporting events augurs well for both India and the world I declare the FIDE Chess World Cup 2025 open!”
A Trophy Befitting a Legend
The unveiling of the newly christened Viswanathan Anand Cup was the highlight of the ceremony. The gold-plated brass trophy an intricate blend of craftsmanship and symbolism will now serve as the rolling trophy for future World Cup champions. Designed to embody passion, precision, and perseverance, it stands as a tribute to the man who transformed Indian chess into a global force.
In a symbolic gesture, Women’s World Cup champion GM Divya Deshmukh performed the draw of colours, determining the opening-round pairings. Her draw gave World Champion D. Gukesh the black pieces in his first match, meaning all odd-numbered players will begin with black on Saturday.
India’s Chess Renaissance Highlighted
Addressing the gathering, Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya commended the All India Chess Federation (AICF) and the Goa government for bringing the event to Indian soil.
“The last time India hosted the FIDE World Cup, we had less than 10 Grandmasters. Today, we have 90 and India now holds the Olympiad titles in both the Open and Women’s categories. With Divya Deshmukh winning the Women’s World Cup, the future of Indian chess has never looked brighter. Hosting this World Cup will only inspire more champions in the years to come.”
Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant extended a warm welcome to the visiting players, saying Goa’s identity as a hub for sports tourism would be further strengthened by hosting events of this magnitude.
“Goa is known for its hospitality and we are honoured to welcome the world’s best chess players. Events like this not only promote our cultural richness but also reinforce our commitment to positioning Goa as a preferred destination for international sports.”
FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich, in his address, lauded India’s rising influence in world chess.
“It is absolutely fitting that the World Cup returns to India after 23 years. India is not only the birthplace of chess but now one of the greatest modern powerhouses of the sport. I thank the AICF for its vision and efforts in organizing this grand event.”
Tournament Overview and Indian Contingent
The FIDE World Cup 2025 features 206 players from 82 countries, competing for three coveted spots in the 2026 Candidates Tournament. The top 50 seeds have received byes for the opening round, with matches beginning on Saturday, November 1.
Turkey’s GM Yagiz Kaan Erdogmus will be the highest-ranked player in the opening round, facing CM Nagi Abugenda (Libya).
Among Indian players, reigning World Junior Champion Pranav V headlines the first round and will face Ala Eddine Boulrens (Algeria). The top seeds World Champion D. Gukesh, second seed Arjun Erigaisi, and 2023 runner-up R. Praggnanandhaa will join the action from Round 2 on November 4.
According to AICF President Nitin Narang, India will field a record 24 players, including five additional wild cards, making this the country’s largest-ever representation in a FIDE World Cup.
“This event gives our players the chance to compete on home turf and showcase their talent against the world’s best. With 24 Indians in the draw, it’s our strongest presence in the history of the World Cup. And who knows maybe one of them will lift the Viswanathan Anand Cup right here in Goa on November 26.”
The opening ceremony mirrored Goa’s cultural vibrancy, blending tradition with modernity. The evening began with a lively performance by the Hormuzd Khambata Dance Group, followed by a musical tribute titled Spirit of Goa led by Hema Sardesai, and a stunning aerial act by the Quadrant Duo.
The night concluded with a rousing performance by legendary singer Usha Uthup, who had the crowd on its feet with her signature energy and charm. Goa Sports Minister Dr. Ramesh Tawadkar noted that the event reflects the state’s growing commitment to sports infrastructure and tourism.
“Hosting the FIDE World Cup for the second time in six years highlights our dedication to sports development. After the success of the National Games and other major events, Goa is now ready to take centre stage in global sporting calendars.”
The Spirit of Chess Comes Home
With the Viswanathan Anand Cup gleaming under the lights and the spirit of chess alive in every corner of the venue, the 2025 World Cup officially kicks off with enormous anticipation. Over the next four weeks, Goa will witness a festival of intellect, resilience, and artistry as 206 of the world’s finest minds battle it out for the ultimate prize in the sport’s spiritual homeland. Tickets for the opening rounds are available on BookMyShow, while fans across the globe can follow the live action on FIDE’s YouTube channel, as well as AICF, ChessBase India, and Chess.com platforms.
As the world’s attention turns to Goa, the words of Prime Minister Modi echo with renewed resonance chess, having journeyed across centuries, has indeed come full circle back to where it began.
