FIDE World Cup 2025 to be Held in New Delhi
India continues to make strides in the world of chess as New Delhi is set to host the FIDE World Cup 2025 from October 31 to November 27. According to the All India Chess Federation (AICF), the event will take place at either Bharat Mandapam or Yashobhoomi, two of India’s top convention centers.
This tournament will serve as a crucial gateway to the Candidates Tournament 2026, which determines the challenger for the World Chess Championship 2026.
A Historic Opportunity for Indian Chess
India has been steadily climbing the global chess rankings, with young talents like D Gukesh, R Praggnanandhaa, Arjun Erigaisi, and Vidit Gujrathi making headlines. The World Cup presents a golden opportunity for these players to secure a place in the Candidates Tournament 2026 and bring further glory to Indian chess.
In the 2023 FIDE World Cup, Praggnanandhaa created history by reaching the final, defeating top players like Hikaru Nakamura and Fabiano Caruana before ultimately losing to Magnus Carlsen. This time, with the home advantage, India’s stars will be looking to go all the way.
Why Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi?
The final venue selection is underway, with Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi emerging as prime candidates:
- Bharat Mandapam gained international recognition after hosting the G20 Summit in 2023. It has world-class amenities and ample capacity for a prestigious event like the FIDE World Cup.
- Yashobhoomi (India International Convention & Expo Centre) is one of India’s newest and most advanced venues, equipped to host large-scale global events with cutting-edge infrastructure.
AICF will soon finalize the venue, ensuring the best facilities for players and spectators.
India’s Bid for the 2026 World Chess Championship
In another major development, India is bidding to host the 2026 World Chess Championship, where Gukesh will defend his world title. This move is expected to further establish India as a powerhouse in international chess.
Should India’s bid be successful, it would mark the first time the country hosts the championship, bringing immense prestige and global recognition to the nation’s chess community.
What This Means for Indian Chess
The FIDE World Cup 2025 in New Delhi is not just an event; it’s a testament to India’s growing influence in the chess world. With top global players competing, the tournament will attract international attention and inspire the next generation of Indian chess prodigies.
As the world awaits the final venue announcement, one thing is clear: Indian chess is on the rise, and the nation is ready to showcase its hosting capabilities on the world stage.
Saathee Global
