26 Aug 2025 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed India’s delight in hosting the prestigious FIDE World Cup, calling it a proud moment for the country’s growing sporting stature on the global stage. The tournament, which features some of the world’s finest chess players, marks a milestone in India’s journey as a hub for international sports.
A Proud Sporting Moment
Addressing the event virtually, PM Modi said India has always cherished chess as part of its cultural and intellectual heritage. He emphasized that hosting the FIDE World Cup reflects the country’s deep-rooted connection to the game and its growing influence in the global sporting arena.
“India is delighted to welcome the world’s best chess minds. This tournament not only celebrates the spirit of competition but also symbolizes India’s timeless association with the game of chess,” the Prime Minister remarked.
Rising Chess Culture in India
India has seen a remarkable chess revolution over the past decade, with rising stars such as R. Praggnanandhaa, D. Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, and Nihal Sarin making waves internationally. The legacy of Viswanathan Anand, India’s first world champion, continues to inspire a new generation of players who now compete shoulder-to-shoulder with global elites.
The hosting of the FIDE World Cup is also expected to further boost grassroots interest in chess across India. Schools, academies, and training centers are increasingly incorporating chess into their programs, with government and private partnerships supporting young talent.
India’s Growing Role in Global Chess
India has hosted several high-profile chess events in recent years, including the 44th Chess Olympiad in Chennai in 2022, which was hailed as a major success by the international community. The FIDE World Cup strengthens India’s position as a global hub for chess tournaments, creating opportunities for greater cultural exchange and sporting collaboration.
FIDE officials praised India’s enthusiasm and organizational capabilities, noting the country’s passionate fan base and infrastructure as key reasons behind awarding the event to India.
Boost for Tourism and Economy
Beyond the sport itself, the World Cup is expected to bring significant economic benefits. Hosting such a prestigious event is likely to attract thousands of visitors, boosting tourism, hospitality, and local businesses in the host cities. The event also provides India with a platform to showcase its cultural heritage to an international audience.
The Road Ahead
India’s successful hosting of the FIDE World Cup is being seen as another step toward enhancing its profile as a global sporting destination. Analysts believe it could pave the way for India to host more international competitions across different disciplines, further cementing its image as a rising sports powerhouse.
For India’s chess fraternity, the World Cup is more than just a tournament—it is a celebration of tradition, intellect, and the nation’s bright sporting future.
Summary
PM Modi said India is delighted to host the FIDE World Cup, highlighting the nation’s deep chess heritage. The event strengthens India’s global sporting role and boosts its growing chess culture.