FIDE World Chess Cup 2025, held in Panjim, Goa, has been officially renamed “Viswanathan Anand Cup”, in honour of India’s first Grandmaster and five-time World Chess Champion Viswanathan Anand. This renaming marks the first time an international chess trophy has been named after an Indian player, signifying global recognition of Anand’s monumental contribution to the world of chess and India’s emergence as a global chess powerhouse.
Key Highlights
- Event: FIDE World Chess Cup (Open) 2025
- Venue: Panjim, Goa
- Trophy Name: Viswanathan Anand Cup (Winner’s Running Trophy)
- Prize Money: USD 2 million
- Winner: $120,000
- Runner-up: $85,000
- Third place: $60,000
- Fourth place: $50,000
- Participants: 206 players from 80 countries
Format:
- Eight-round knockout classical tournament.
- Each round: Two classical games + one day for tiebreaks (rapid/blitz, if needed).
- Top 50 players receive first-round byes.
- Pairings: Top half vs. reversed lower half.
Qualification:
- Top 3 finishers qualify directly for the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026, the gateway to the World Chess Championship.
Elite Participation:
- As per FIDE’s latest rating list, 22 players rated 2700+, ensuring participation of top global chess elites.
Historic Context
- This is the first time since 2002 that the FIDE World Cup is being held in India.
- In 2002, Viswanathan Anand defeated Rustam Kasimdzhanov in the final in Hyderabad.
- The 2025 edition in Goa reflects India’s rising prominence in hosting global-level chess tournaments.
Symbolism and Significance
Global Recognition of Anand’s Legacy
The renaming of the FIDE World Cup trophy as the Viswanathan Anand Cup is a historic first for India- an acknowledgment of Anand’s enduring impact on chess worldwide.
India’s Rise as a Chess Powerhouse
India now boasts several global chess stars- including D. Gukesh, R. Praggnanandhaa, and Nihal Sarin — who credit Anand as their inspiration. The renaming symbolizes India’s growing influence and leadership in global chess.
Inspiration for Future Generations
The honour celebrates not only Anand’s career but also the aspirations of millions of young Indian players inspired by his achievements. It reaffirms India’s identity as a rising chess superpower.
Viswanathan Anand– “The Tiger of Madras”
- First Indian Grandmaster: 1988
- World Champion Titles: 5-time World Champion (2000, 2007, 2008, 2010, 2012)
- Playing Style: Calm, strategic, yet aggressive — earned him worldwide respect.
Awards:
- Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna (1991) – India’s highest sporting honour.
- Padma Vibhushan (2008) – India’s second-highest civilian award.
Contribution:
- Mentored India’s new generation of prodigies.
- Elevated India’s standing in world chess.
- Served as a global ambassador for the sport through his humility, intellect, and sportsmanship.
Significance for India
- First global chess trophy named after an Indian legend.
- Highlights India’s soft power and intellectual leadership in mind sports.
- Strengthens India’s reputation as a hub for international chess events.
- Symbol of national pride and global respect for Indian sporting excellence.