FIDE World Cup 2025 Begins in Goa, Trophy Named After Viswanathan Anand

• The 2025 FIDE World Chess Cup opened in Goa on Friday, marking a proud moment for Indian chess as the prestigious Viswanathan Anand Trophy was unveiled in honour of India’s first Grandmaster and five-time world champion. The event brings together 206 players from 80 countries , with the top three finishers earning spots in the 2026 Candidates Tournament , the final qualifier for the World Chess Championship.

Tribute to Viswanathan Anand

• The glittering trophy, dedicated to Anand’s extraordinary legacy, was unveiled during an opening ceremony attended by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya , Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant , and FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich . Designed with a peacock motif symbolising grace and intellect, the trophy represents India’s growing stature as a global chess powerhouse. AICF President Nitin Narang described it as a tribute to Anand’s impact on Indian chess and an inspiration for young players worldwide.

Tournament Format and Prize Pool

The championship carries a total prize fund of USD 2 million and follows an eight-round knockout format of classical games. Each match includes two games, with rapid and blitz tiebreaks if necessary. The top 50 seeds start in round two, while the remaining 156 players began their matches on November 1 . The tournament’s outcome will determine the three players who qualify for the 2026 Candidates Tournament , a crucial step toward the next world title match.

Indian Contingent and Global Challengers

India’s challenge is led by reigning world champion D Gukesh , who enters directly into the second round. Other key Indian participants include R Praggnanandhaa , Arjun Erigaisi , Nihal Sarin , and Divya Deshmukh , the current Women’s World Cup champion and the only woman in the open section. Top international competitors include Vincent Keymer (Germany), Anish Giri (Netherlands), Wesley So (USA), and Levon Aronian (Armenia).

Exam-Oriented Facts

• Venue: Goa, India

• Trophy: Named after Viswanathan Anand

• Participants: 206 players from 80 nations

• Prize Money: USD 2 million

• Top three qualify for 2026 Candidates Tournament

Significance for Indian Chess

This is the first FIDE World Cup hosted by India since 2002 , when Hyderabad last staged the event and Anand emerged victorious. The 2025 edition, anchored by the Viswanathan Anand Trophy , highlights India’s transformation into a chess superpower, reflecting two decades of progress, from producing a world champion to nurturing a new generation of global contenders.