Goa is making its move on the global sports board. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has unveiled the logo and anthem for the 2025 FIDE World Cup Chess Championship, to be held in Goa from October 31 to November 27, 2025. The event marks a historic return of the prestigious tournament to India after 23 years, promising to turn the coastal state into an international hub for strategy, intellect, and sporting spirit.
While cricket often overshadows every other sport in India, this event brings much-needed attention to the silent yet powerful world of chess — a game where India has rapidly become a global force. The World Cup winner will not only claim the title but also earn a spot among the top three qualifiers for the 2026 Candidates Tournament, the gateway to the World Chess Championship.
Among the star contenders are India’s finest — Gukesh D, Arjun Erigaisi, Praggnanandhaa R, Vidit Gujrathi, Nihal Sarin, and the rising sensation Divya Deshmukh, who earned a wildcard entry. They will compete against global powerhouses like Anish Giri, Wesley So, Vincent Keymer, Hans Niemann, Nodirbek Abdusattorov, Ian Nepomniachtchi, and Richard Rapport.
Adding a heartwarming twist, the tournament will also feature 12-year-old Argentinian prodigy Faustino Oro, who will become the youngest participant in the event’s history.
Speaking at the unveiling, CM Sawant emphasized that 82 countries will participate, positioning Goa and India as global chess destinations. “This will encourage new chess talent from Goa and inspire every Indian who believes in the power of intellect,” he said, calling the event a dream that unites sports and spirit.
The ceremony saw the presence of State Sports Minister Ramesh Tawadkar, AICF President Nitin Narang, Secretary Dev Patel, and Goa Chess Association Chief V. Candevalou.
In a nation obsessed with bats and boundaries, this event offers a refreshing call to celebrate the brilliance of the mind. As the world’s finest grandmasters gather under Goa’s palm-lined skies, India takes a bold and confident step from stadium cheers to silent and strategic triumphs.
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