Chess | It’s official! Goa to host FIDE World Cup with Rs 17.5 Cr prize pool

The FIDE World Cup 2025 will take place in Goa from October 31 to November 27, bringing one of chess’s most prestigious knockout tournaments to India. A total of 206 players will compete for a prize pool of USD 2 million (over ₹17.5 crore) and three qualifying spots in the 2026 Candidates Tournament. The event follows an eight-round knockout format, with the top 50 seeds beginning their campaigns from the second round. Each match will consist of two classical games, followed by rapid and blitz tie-breaks if required. Goa was chosen as the host city for its blend of natural beauty and cultural appeal, offering players and fans a vibrant backdrop for high-stakes competition according to a FIDE release. India’s recent rise as a chess powerhouse added to the case for staging the World Cup on its soil. In the past year, Indian chess has reached new heights. D Gukesh became the World Champion, the national teams triumphed at the Chess Olympiad in both the Open and Women’s categories, and teenager Divya Deshmukh claimed the Women’s World Cup in July. Hosting the Open World Cup is seen as another landmark moment for the sport in the country. FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich underlined the importance of the move. “India has become one of the strongest chess nations, with outstanding players and passionate fans. After the success of the FIDE Women’s World Cup held in Georgia earlier this year, we are proud to bring the FIDE World Cup to Goa. It will be a celebration of chess, and a unique experience for players and spectators from around the world,” he told FIDE, noting that representatives from over 90 countries are expected. AICF President Nitin Narang described it as a milestone for Indian chess. “This is a proud moment for Indian chess, and we are committed to delivering an event that reflects both the passion of our fans and the professionalism of our federation. The World Cup will not only inspire millions across the country but also showcase India’s growing stature as a global hub for chess,” Narang said. With the venue now confirmed, anticipation is high for what promises to be one of the most closely followed tournaments in recent times.