Goa to host prestigious FIDE Chess World Cup 2025

The FIDE Chess World Cup 2025 is set to take place in Goa from 31 October to 27 November this year, marking a historic return of the prestigious tournament to Indian soil after 23 years. Hosted at the luxurious Resort Rio in Bardez, Arpora, the event will feature 206 players representing 82 countries, battling it out in a high-stakes, knock-out format for a total prize fund of $2 million.
The winner of the World Cup will not only take home the championship title, but also secure one of three coveted spots in the 2026 Candidates Tournament, the penultimate stage leading to the World Chess Championship.
Among the top contenders are some of the biggest names in world chess, including Gukesh D, Arjun Erigaisi, Praggnanandhaa R, Anish Giri, Wesley So, Vincent Keymer, Hans Niemann, Nodirbek Abdusattorov, Ian Nepomniachtchi, Richard Rapport, Vidit Gujrathi, Nihal Sarin and many more.

YOUNG GUNS
The tournament will also feature Faustino Oro, the 12-year-old Argentinian prodigy, who will make history as the youngest participant in the 2025 edition. Indian rising star, Divya Deshmukh, joins the Open Section via a wildcard entry, following a last-minute withdrawal by another participant.
The return of the World Cup to India — for the first time since 2002 — underlines the nation’s growing influence and passion for chess, especially after the recent global successes of its young grandmasters.
Goa’s vibrant culture and scenic charm are expected to provide an unforgettable backdrop for one of the chess world’s most prestigious events.

ABOUT THE LOGO
The logo for the FIDE World Cup Goa 2025 presents a vibrant and culturally rich visual identity that beautifully merges the essence of Goa's coastal charm with the strategic elegance of chess.
The Green Panel shows a white palm tree with a blue wave at the bottom. The Red Panel has a diamond-shaped checkerboard pattern in white. The Yellow Panel has a stylized sun with curved rays. It represents Goa's sunny weather and warm, welcoming vibe.

ABOUT THE ANTHEM
The anthem is sung by Daler Mehendi. For the first time, India isn’t just hosting — it’s playing the host and the hero. Each Indian player represents a pillar of Indian chess evolution — talent, tradition, intellect and inspiration, namely Tania, Gukesh, Humpy Vidit.