FIDE Chess World Cup 2025 Inaugurated in Goa; PM Modi Says Return of Event to India Marks a Proud Moment for Nation

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FIDE Chess World Cup 2025 Inaugurated in Goa; PM Modi Says Return of Event to India Marks a Proud Moment for Nation

The FIDE Chess World Cup 2025 was inaugurated at the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium, Taleigao, Goa.
The event marks the return of the prestigious Chess World Cup to India after 23 years, the last being hosted in 2002.
The tournament is being held from October 31 to November 27, 2025, featuring 206 players from 82 countries.
The total prize purse for the event is USD 2 million, reflecting its global stature.
Notable players include Gukesh D, R Praggnanandhaa, Wesley So, and Anish Giri, making Goa a global hub of chess activity during the tournament.
In his message, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that hosting the World Cup in India — the birthplace of Chaturanga, the ancient form of chess — is a moment of national pride.
The PM described Goa as a befitting venue, whose calm atmosphere mirrors the intellectual depth of chess, and expressed hope the event would inspire young Indians to pursue the game.
Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted India’s evolution as a global chess power, noting that the number of Indian Grandmasters has grown from 10 in 2002 to 88 in 2025.
Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant stated that the championship reinforces Goa’s image as a vibrant sports hub and represents a proud moment for India in international sports.

FIDE (Fédération Internationale des Échecs): The international governing body for chess, established in 1924 in Paris, responsible for organizing the Chess World Cup and the World Chess Championship cycle.
Chess in India:
- Anciently known as Chaturanga, chess originated in India during the Gupta period (6th century CE).
- India is home to Viswanathan Anand, a five-time World Champion, and rising stars like Gukesh D and R Praggnanandhaa.
Goa as a Sports Venue:
- Goa has recently hosted several international events, aligning with India’s strategy to promote sports tourism and international sporting infrastructure development.

Updated – 31 Oct 2025 ; 08:38 PM | News Source – All India Radio (AIR)