By India to Host FIDE World Cup 2025 in New Delhi
The FIDE World Cup 2025 is set to take place in New Delhi, marking a significant milestone for Indian chess. The All India Chess Federation (AICF) has confirmed that the event will be held between October 31 and November 27, 2025, with Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi emerging as the top venue choices.
India’s Rising Dominance in Chess
With India producing top-tier grandmasters, hosting the FIDE World Cup will serve as a major boost for Indian chess. The tournament will feature top Indian players like D Gukesh, R Praggnanandhaa, Arjun Erigaisi, and Vidit Gujrathi, who will compete for a place in the Candidates Tournament 2026, the final stepping stone to the World Chess Championship 2026.
A Platform for Indian Chess Stars
The FIDE World Cup 2025 will be a crucial opportunity for Indian chess players to shine on home soil. In the 2023 edition, Praggnanandhaa made history by reaching the final, defeating chess heavyweights like Hikaru Nakamura and Fabiano Caruana before losing to Magnus Carlsen. With the tournament coming to India, expectations are high for another stellar performance from India’s rising stars.
Why Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi Are Ideal Venues?
Both Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi (India International Convention & Expo Centre) have world-class infrastructure capable of hosting large-scale international events.
- Bharat Mandapam successfully hosted the G20 Summit 2023, proving its capability for organizing high-profile global events.
- Yashobhoomi, India’s newest convention center, is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities suitable for an international chess event of this magnitude.
AICF is currently in discussions to finalize the venue, ensuring the best possible experience for players and spectators alike.
India Bidding for the 2026 World Chess Championship
In addition to hosting the FIDE World Cup 2025, India is also bidding to host the 2026 World Chess Championship, where Gukesh will defend his world title. If successful, India will further establish itself as a global chess hub, attracting top players from around the world.
The last World Chess Championship was held in Toronto, Canada, and bringing the next edition to India would be a landmark achievement for the country’s chess community.
The FIDE World Cup 2025 in New Delhi is set to be one of the biggest chess tournaments in Indian history. With top players competing for a spot in the Candidates Tournament 2026, the event will be a major attraction for chess enthusiasts. As Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi await the final venue confirmation, India’s growing presence in global chess continues to strengthen. Additionally, the bid for the 2026 World Chess Championship further highlights India’s ambition to become a leading chess powerhouse.
