Opening Press Conference Kicks Off 2025 FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Championships
The 2025 FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Championships officially began with a press conference on 25 December at the Rosewood Hotel in Doha. This event brings together the world’s top chess players to compete for four world titles in rapid and blitz formats for both the Open and Women’s sections.
The championships run from 26 to 30 December in Doha. The total prize fund is over €1,000,000. The Open Rapid section has 251 players, while the Open Blitz includes 254 players. The Women’s events feature 142 players. Top players, including reigning world champions and speed chess experts, represent chess federations from around the world.
FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich opened the press conference. He welcomed players and thanked the hosts and partners. He praised Doha, calling Qatar “a beautiful place with a rich chess history.” Dvorkovich highlighted that fast chess is growing in popularity. He said fans can expect “real fights and a lot of fun” and that faster formats will become more common in the coming years.
Mohammed Al-Mudahka, President of Qatar Chess, also spoke at the conference. He noted that the tournament set a world record for participation, with nearly 300 players across all formats. He mentioned that fans will get a rare chance to see three reigning world champions compete.
Players shared their thoughts ahead of the event. Reigning World Champion Gukesh D. said rapid and blitz are not his main focus but allow him to play freely and enjoy the game. He added that he hopes to learn and gain experience.
Women’s World Champion and Women’s Blitz Champion Ju Wenjun said all chess formats are tough, but she finds rapid and blitz more exciting. She looks forward to playing some “very nice games.”
Former World Champion Magnus Carlsen, the reigning co-Blitz Champion, attended the press conference with his family. He shared that becoming a father has been a wonderful experience. Carlsen joked that his family does not give him chess advice yet. He stressed that his goal remains to win and provide good entertainment for fans in Norway.
The press conference ended with the traditional drawing of lots to determine which players will use white or black pieces. Magnus Carlsen drew white for the Rapid and black for the Blitz. Ju Wenjun drew black for the Rapid and white for the Blitz.
The first games of the Rapid Championship begin on 26 December at the Sports and Events Complex at Qatar University. Both the Open and Women’s sections play in the same hall. Fans can attend in person through the official ticketing platform.
Live coverage is available on the FIDE YouTube Channel, with expert commentary from GM Maurice Ashley, Peter Leko, and IM Jovanka Houska.
Photos: Lennart Ootes, FIDE_Chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
