Goa: The prestigious FIDE World Chess Cup 2025, which began in Goa on Friday, was inaugurated with a momentous announcement: the winner’s trophy has been officially named the “Viswanathan Anand Cup.” This move honors India’s first Grandmaster and five-time World Champion, celebrating his towering legacy and contribution to chess globally.
The trophy—a magnificent, brass and gold-plated masterpiece—was unveiled during a vibrant opening ceremony attended by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, and FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich. The All India Chess Federation (AICF) announced that the Viswanathan Anand Cup will serve as a perpetual rolling trophy for the FIDE World Cup, symbolizing the enduring spirit of the game in its birthplace.
Tournament Commences with Indian Stars
The tournament, which runs until November 27, marks the return of the FIDE World Cup to India after 23 years. It features 206 players from 82 countries competing in a high-stakes, eight-round knockout format for a prize purse of $2 million and, most importantly, three qualification spots for the 2026 Candidates Tournament.
India fields a record 24-member contingent, the largest in the tournament’s history. The team is spearheaded by the reigning World Champion D. Gukesh, who is seeded number one and enjoys a bye into the second round. Also in contention are top Indian grandmasters Arjun Erigaisi and R. Praggnanandhaa, with high expectations resting on the new generation of Indian chess stars.
Key Tournament Details:
- Format: Eight-round, single-elimination knockout.
- Stakes: $2 million prize fund and 3 spots in the 2026 Candidates Tournament.
- Indian Participation: A record 24 players, including World Champion D. Gukesh.
