Opening Ceremony of the 2025 FIDE World Cup Shines Bright in Goa
The grand opening of the 2025 FIDE World Cup lit up the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium in Goa with energy, color, and excitement. The 2.5-hour ceremony marked the beginning of one of the most prestigious chess tournaments in the world.
Over a thousand players, officials, and guests attended the event. The audience enjoyed spectacular performances by leading Indian artists from the music and film industry. Their acts were beautifully mixed with inspiring speeches from dignitaries and chess leaders.
At 4:30 p.m., the presenters officially welcomed everyone. They announced that 206 top players from around the globe will battle for a $2 million prize fund in this test of strategy, determination, and focus.
The ceremony began with the Indian national anthem, followed by the traditional lighting of the lamp—a symbol of blessings, greatness, and positivity.
Among the distinguished guests were:
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Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports
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Dr. Pramod Sawant, Chief Minister of Goa
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Dr. Ramesh Tawadkar, Minister for Art & Culture, Tribal Welfare, and Sports & Youth Affairs of Goa
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FIDE President Mr. Arkady Dvorkovich
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AICF President Mr. Nitin Narang
A special video titled The Spirit and Story of Chess played next, ending with the powerful line: “Where strategy meets spirit and champions are born.”
The Hormuzd Khambata dance company then lit up the stage with a colorful performance celebrating Goan culture.
Two key speeches stood out during the night. Mr. Nitin Narang, President of the All India Chess Federation, read a recorded message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Prime Minister said he hoped the event would inspire a new generation of players and motivate the youth. With his message, he officially declared the FIDE World Cup 2025 open.
FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich followed with an inspiring speech. He highlighted that this tournament is one of the most dramatic in the FIDE calendar and that only three players will qualify for the 2026 Candidates Tournament—the path to the World Championship match.
Dvorkovich described Goa as “not just a coastal paradise, but the Colosseum of Chess,” where legends are created and new champions rise. He praised Indian hospitality and wished all players good luck and fair play.
As the FIDE anthem played, the audience rose in respect. Soon after, Hema Sardesai and her band performed The Spirit of Goa, adding even more life to the evening.
A special highlight followed when GM Divya Deshmukh, the reigning 2025 Women’s World Cup Champion and the only female player in this event, came on stage for the drawing of lots. She drew the black piece for Gukesh, meaning all odd-numbered players will start Round 1 with the black pieces.
Divya said proudly, “Playing on home soil and representing India gives me an extra sense of pride and motivation.”
The audience then enjoyed a mesmerizing flute and beatbox performance by the Qudrot Duo. Afterwards, dignitaries gathered again to unveil the Vishwanathan Anand World Cup Trophy—a stunning brass and gold-plated masterpiece symbolizing passion, precision, and performance.
A final video presentation of the official World Cup song It’s Your Move played before the night ended with a powerhouse concert by Usha Uthup and her band, featuring songs like Skyfall from James Bond.
The first round begins on November 1 at 3 PM local time, with live coverage and commentary by GMs Evgenij Miroshnichenko and Jan Gustafsson on the FIDE YouTube Channel.
For those in Goa, tickets to watch the games in person are available on the official website: worldcup2025.fide.com
Photos: Michal Walusza, FIDE_Chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
