India will host the FIDE World Cup 2025, a significant event in international chess, from October 30 to November 27, 2025. This edition brings together 206 top players in a knockout format, serving as a crucial qualification pathway to the 2026 FIDE Candidates Tournament.
Background
The FIDE World Cup, organized by FIDE, is a renowned biennial chess championship known for its competitive format and as a key route to qualify for the FIDE World Chess Championship cycle.
Format and Structure
- Single-Elimination: Follows the knockout format
- 206 Players: Competing in total
- Round Details: Each round consists of 2 classical games and 1 tie-break day
Qualification Criteria
- Reigning Champions: World and Women’s Champions
- Top Finishers: FIDE World Cup 2023
- Continental Quotas: Africa (3), Americas (12), Asia (35), Europe (30)
- FIDE Ratings: Top 13 players in FIDE rating (June 2025)
India’s Chess Rise and Significance as Host
- Chess Hub: India, with legends like Viswanathan Anand, is a global chess center
- Key Highlights:
- Home to young stars like Gukesh Dommaraju, Praggnanandhaa R, Arjun Erigaisi
- Historic gold medal wins at 2024 Chess Olympiad
Impact and Outlook
- Enhancements:
- Sports Diplomacy
- Tourism and Infrastructure
- Inspiration for Young Aspirants
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
- India to host FIDE World Cup 2025 from October 30 to November 27, 2025
- 206 top players will compete in a knockout format
- The event serves as a crucial qualification pathway to the 2026 FIDE Candidates Tournament
- India’s growing influence in the global chess community highlighted through hosting prestigious events
