FIDE World Cup 2025 to be held in Goa from October 30 to November 27

The International Chess Federation on Tuesday announced that the FIDE World Cup 2025 will be hosted in Goa, India, from October 30 to November 27.

The knockout tournament will feature 206 players competing for a prize pool of $2 million (over Rs 17.5 crore) and three qualifying spots in the 2026 Candidates Tournament.

The event will be played in an eight-round knockout format with the top 50 seeds beginning their campaigns from the second round. Each match will have two classical games, with rapid and bltiz tie-breaks if needed.


FIDE said that Goa was choses because of its blend of natural beauty and cultural appeal, offering fans and players a vibrant experience in the high-stakes competition. India’s recent rise as a chess powerhouse added to the case for staging the World Cup in the country, a release stated.

"Indian chess has reached new highs in the past year, with D Gukesh becaming the World Champion, the national teams triumphing at the Chess Olympiad in both the Open and Women’s categories, and teenager Divya Deshmukh claiming the Women’s World Cup in July," 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.”

Hosting the Open World Cup is seen as another landmark moment for the sport in the country.

AICF President Nitin Narang described it as a milestone for Indian chess. “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,” Narang said.