The FIDE World Cup 2025 will take place in Goa from October 31 to November 27, 2025. The tournament will gather the world’s best players for a month-long knockout competition that promises intense drama and high stakes.

A total of 206 players will compete for a prize pool of USD 2 million. More importantly, the top three finishers will secure a spot in the 2026 Candidates Tournament, the gateway to the World Chess Championship. With its win-or-go-home format, the World Cup remains one of the most gripping events on the chess calendar.

Why Goa was chosen

FIDE selected Goa not just for its facilities but also for its unique charm. The coastal state is famous for its beaches, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, making it a perfect stage for a global chess spectacle.

At the same time, India has a deep connection with chess. The country has risen as a global powerhouse in recent years. Indian players have won major tournaments and inspired millions of fans. Hosting the World Cup in Goa reflects both tradition and progress, while giving local fans a chance to watch their stars on home ground.

India’s recent rise in chess

India’s achievements in chess have been remarkable. Last year, Gukesh Dommaraju became the World Champion, and Indian teams triumphed in the Chess Olympiad in both the Open and Women’s categories.

This momentum continued in July 2025, when Divya Deshmukh won the Women’s World Cup, gaining international recognition. Now, by staging the Open World Cup in Goa, India cements its growing role as a global hub for chess.

FIDE and AICF hail the decision

FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich highlighted India’s growing stature. He said, “India has become one of the strongest chess nations, with outstanding players and passionate fans. After the success of the FIDE Women’s World Cup held in Georgia earlier this year, we are proud to bring the FIDE World Cup to Goa. It will be a celebration of chess, and a unique experience for players and spectators from around the world. The representatives of 90+ countries are expected to take part, and it will be one of the most followed events in chess history.”

AICF President Nitin Narang also shared his excitement. He said, “This is a proud moment for Indian chess, and we are committed to delivering an event that reflects both the passion of our fans and the professionalism of our federation. The World Cup will not only inspire millions across the country but also showcase India’s growing stature as a global hub for chess. We are deeply thankful to FIDE for granting India the honor of hosting the World Cup 2025 in Goa.”

Tournament details

• Dates: October 31 – November 27, 2025

• Venue: Goa, India

• Format: Eight-round knockout

• Players: 206 participants

• Structure: Top 50 seeds join in Round 2

• Match system: Two classical games, followed by rapid and blitz playoffs if tied

• Prize fund: USD 2 million

• Candidates qualification: Top 3 finishers qualify for the 2026 Candidates Tournament

Confirmed top players for 2025

Some of the biggest names in world chess have already qualified:

• World Champion 2024: Gukesh Dommaraju (IND)

• World Cup 2023 finalists: Magnus Carlsen (NOR), Praggnanandhaa R (IND), Fabiano Caruana (USA), Nijat Abasov (AZE)

• Women’s World Champion 2025: Ju Wenjun (CHN)

• World Junior Champion 2024: Kazybek Nogerbek (KAZ)

• Top-ranked players (FIDE June 2025): Hikaru Nakamura (USA), Arjun Erigaisi (IND), Nodirbek Abdusattorov (UZB), Alireza Firouzja (FRA), Wei Yi (CHN), Ian Nepomniachtchi (FIDE), Aravindh Chithambaram (IND), Anish Giri (NED), Shakhriyar Mamedyarov (AZE), Wesley So (USA), Viswanathan Anand (IND), Maxime Vachier-Lagrave (FRA), Hans Niemann (USA).

A milestone for Indian chess

By bringing the FIDE World Cup 2025 to Goa, India not only strengthens its role in world chess but also gives its rising stars a chance to shine at home. For fans, it promises a rare opportunity to witness legends and young talents fight for glory in one of the sport’s most prestigious arenas.