Goodnight Goa – The 2025 FIDE World Cup Comes to an End
The 2025 FIDE World Cup in Goa ended with a warm and emotional closing ceremony at Resort Rio. After nearly a month of top-level chess, the final chapter of this intense knockout event was celebrated in style.
The hall was filled with players, officials, dignitaries, and guests. The evening blended formal speeches, performances, and heartfelt moments that honoured the champions of this year’s World Cup. Presenters Ash Chandler and Rebekah Watkins opened the event, calling Goa the “heartbeat of the chess world” over the past several weeks.
The ceremony began with the Indian National Anthem followed by the FIDE Anthem. Dignitaries were welcomed with bouquets presented by Dr Ajay R. Gaude. Among the guests of honour were Goa Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant, FIDE Deputy President Viswanathan Anand, AICF President Nitin Narang, and FIDE Secretary General Lukasz Turlej.
A highlights film then played, showing the biggest upsets, dramatic tiebreaks, and powerful comebacks of the tournament. For many, it was like reliving the entire event from the very beginning.
AICF President Nitin Narang delivered the first major speech. He shared a short story about a young player who turned his losses into learning, a reminder that every mistake helps build future champions. His message captured the spirit of the World Cup perfectly.
The energy rose as lantern dancers performed a beautiful and skillful routine, balancing candles and moving in harmony.
Next came a keynote speech by five-time World Champion and Indian chess legend Viswanathan Anand. He thanked the organisers, praised India’s growth as a chess powerhouse, and celebrated the three new Candidates qualifiers. Anand reflected on his own journey and expressed pride in how India has become a global center for chess.
Goa’s Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant then spoke about the state’s growing presence in international sports and how hosting the World Cup has strengthened this reputation.
A stunning sand-art performance by Rahul Arya followed, telling the story of chess and the journey of the players through the World Cup using flowing visuals.
Then came the moment everyone was waiting for—the award ceremony. Bronze medalist Andrey Esipenko received his medal first, followed by silver medalist Wei Yi. Finally, the new FIDE World Cup Champion, Javokhir Sindarov, collected his gold medal and the Viswanathan Anand Trophy. Golden streamers filled the stage as the hall celebrated his victory.
The national anthem of Uzbekistan played, and a special surprise video from the President of Uzbekistan congratulated Sindarov. In his speech, Sindarov spoke warmly about his long connection with India, beginning from his first tournament here at age seven. He expressed how truly happy he felt at this milestone moment.
The hosts gave their final remarks, and Viswanathan Anand officially declared the 2025 FIDE World Cup closed.
As the lights dimmed and guests moved to the poolside gala dinner, the World Cup wrapped up with joy, pride, and unforgettable memories. This edition will be remembered for its thrilling games, rising stars, and the crowning of three new Candidates.
Photos: Michal Walusza, FIDE_Chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
