The FIDE World Cup, one of the most important events on the international chess circuit, will be held in Goa from October 30 to November 27.
India had earlier been announced as the host nation. On Tuesday came the confirmation that the tournament will take place in Goa. Chennai, Delhi, and Ahmedabad were also in contention, but Goa received the nod for everything it offers.
“Goa’s stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality make it an exciting backdrop for this global showdown. Players and fans will experience world-class chess alongside a destination famous for its energy and charm,” FIDE president Arkady Dvorkovich was quoted as saying in a media release.
In many ways, Goa appears to be the right choice. The event will attract hundreds of participants, officials, and visitors from many countries. For them, Goa could prove to be the ideal place in India. It will offer much more than just chess.
“It’s a major tourist destination. A lot of people visit Goa every year. To have this event there will add that additional touch. That’s why the federation chose Goa,” said sources in the All India Chess Federation. It is understood that the decision was taken by senior officials of the federation, without any formal meeting being convened.
The World Cup is a biennial knockout event. R Praggnanandhaa was the star of the 2023 edition in Baku, Azerbaijan, where he stunned everyone by reaching the final before losing to Magnus Carlsen. D Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, and Vidit Gujrathi also made it to the quarter-finals, making it four Indians in the last eight.
It is an important event because the top three from the World Cup qualify for the eight-player Candidates tournament, the winner of which earns the right to challenge the world champion. This year, the total number of participants will be 206. It is not yet clear if Carlsen will be among them.
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