FIDE World Cup 2025 to be staged in Goa from November 27

The FIDE World Cup 2025 will be staged in Goa from November 27 with 206 players, a USD 2 million prize pool, and three Candidates Tournament spots, showcasing India’s growing chess stature

Hyderabad: The FIDE World Cup 2025 will be held in Goa from November 27, with the world’s top players gathering to showcase their skills.

This knockout spectacle will feature 206 players competing for a share of USD 2,000,000 and three coveted places in the 2026 Candidates Tournament. Every round is win-or-go-home, making the World Cup one of the most dramatic tournaments on the chess calendar.

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Last year, Gukesh Dommaraju became the World Champion, while Indian teams won the Chess Olympiad in both Open and Women’s categories.

The momentum continued this July when Divya Deshmukh produced a standout performance in the Women’s World Cup, lifting the trophy and capturing worldwide attention.

taging the Open World Cup in Goa builds on these successes and gives local fans an opportunity to watch their stars compete against the very best on home soil.

FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich said India had 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. Representatives from more than 90 countries are expected, making it one of the most followed events in chess history,” he explained.

AICF President Nitin Narang described it as a proud moment for Indian chess, affirming the federation’s commitment to delivering an event that reflects both the passion of fans and the professionalism of the organisation.

“The World Cup will not only inspire millions across the country but also showcase India’s growing stature as a global hub for chess. We are deeply thankful to FIDE for granting India the honor of hosting the World Cup 2025 in Goa,” he said.