Chess World Cup 2025 in India Sees Record Indian Participation as Players Eye Candidates Tournament Spots
India Hosts the Prestigious Chess World Cup 2025
India, the birthplace of modern chess, is once again in the global spotlight as it hosts the Chess World Cup 2025, one of the most anticipated events in the international chess calendar. The prestigious tournament, organised by FIDE (International Chess Federation), features the world’s top grandmasters competing for glory and qualification spots for the 2026 Candidates Tournament, which ultimately decides the challenger for the World Chess Championship title.
Held in Chennai, the heart of Indian chess, the event has garnered massive attention due to the record participation of Indian players, reflecting the country’s rapid rise as a global chess powerhouse. From seasoned veterans to promising young prodigies, India’s presence in this year’s World Cup marks a new chapter in its sporting journey.
Record Number of Indian Players in the 2025 Edition
This year’s World Cup has witnessed an all-time high number of Indian participants—a total of 28 Indian players across both the Open and Women’s sections, the largest contingent in the tournament’s history.
Leading the charge is Grandmaster Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa, who made headlines in recent years with stellar international performances. Joining him are Arjun Erigaisi, D. Gukesh, and Vidit Gujrathi, all of whom have established themselves among the world’s top 25 players.
In the women’s category, Koneru Humpy, Harika Dronavalli, and R Vaishali are carrying the torch for Indian women’s chess, each aiming for a deep run in the knockout rounds.
FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich praised India’s role in hosting the event, stating, “India has become the epicenter of world chess. The enthusiasm, infrastructure, and talent emerging from this country are unmatched.”
Tournament Format and Stakes
The Chess World Cup 2025 follows the traditional knockout format, where players face off in two-game classical mini-matches, followed by rapid and blitz tiebreaks if necessary. The tournament features 206 players in the Open category and 103 players in the Women’s section, representing more than 80 countries.
The top three finishers in the Open section and the top two in the Women’s section will qualify for the 2026 Candidates Tournament, which determines the challenger for the World Championship crown.
With India hosting, expectations are running high that at least one Indian player will secure a spot in the Candidates — a feat that would further strengthen the nation’s position on the global chess map.
Rising Stars and Home Crowd Advantage
Among the young stars drawing attention are D. Gukesh and Arjun Erigaisi, both 20-year-old grandmasters who have already crossed the 2750 rating mark. Their consistent performances on the international stage have placed them among the top contenders for the title.
Meanwhile, Praggnanandhaa, a World Cup finalist in 2023, is eyeing redemption after narrowly missing the championship crown two years ago. Playing on home soil, he has expressed confidence and composure. “It’s a special feeling to play in front of home fans. The support pushes us to perform better,” said the Chennai-based prodigy.
The local crowd has been turning up in large numbers to cheer for their favorites, creating a vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of major cricket tournaments. Organizers have reported record ticket sales and online viewership, underscoring the growing popularity of chess in India.
Women’s Section: Strong Indian Presence
In the Women’s World Cup, Grandmaster Koneru Humpy, the 2019 Women’s World Rapid Champion, is one of the top seeds. Alongside her, Harika Dronavalli and R Vaishali—the sister of Praggnanandhaa—are also among the title hopefuls.
Humpy, speaking to reporters, said, “Indian women’s chess has evolved tremendously. We are no longer just participants; we are contenders. The new generation is fearless and determined.”
The Indian women’s contingent’s performance is being closely watched, especially after their impressive showing at the 2022 Chess Olympiad, where India hosted and secured multiple medals.
International Stars Join the Battle
The tournament also features some of the world’s elite grandmasters, including Magnus Carlsen, Hikaru Nakamura, Ian Nepomniachtchi, and Alireza Firouzja. Their presence ensures intense competition and world-class matchups right from the early rounds.
Carlsen, the former World Champion, remarked that India’s hosting of the World Cup was “a natural choice,” given the country’s deep connection with chess. He praised the younger Indian generation for bringing fresh energy and creativity to the sport.
Organizational Excellence and Global Recognition
The All India Chess Federation (AICF) and the Tamil Nadu Government have been lauded for their flawless organization of the event. The state’s successful history of hosting major chess events—such as the 2022 Chess Olympiad in Chennai—has further cemented its reputation as a global chess hub.
Advanced digital boards, real-time game broadcasts, and AI-powered analysis tools are being used to enhance fan engagement. Live commentary in multiple languages has expanded the event’s reach, making it accessible to millions of viewers across the globe.
India’s Growing Chess Revolution
Over the past decade, India has experienced an extraordinary chess revolution. With more than 85 grandmasters and thousands of young players rising through online and academy circuits, the country has established itself as a dominant force in the sport.
Government and corporate sponsorships, along with increased school-level engagement, have boosted the game’s visibility. The Chess World Cup 2025 stands as both a celebration and culmination of that momentum.
Conclusion
As the Chess World Cup 2025 unfolds in India, all eyes are on the record Indian contingent striving for international glory. The combination of home advantage, youthful talent, and growing national enthusiasm positions India as the true heart of the chess world.
With qualification for the 2026 Candidates Tournament at stake, the coming rounds promise not only world-class chess battles but also potential history in the making. Whether it’s a veteran’s comeback or a prodigy’s breakthrough, the tournament is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory.
