FIDE World Cup 2025 India sees the unveiling of its official logo and anthem in Goa. Featuring Daler Mehndi and top Indian chess players, this tournament marks a milestone for global chess.
India Unveils FIDE World Cup 2025 Logo and Anthem
Introduction: A Historic Moment for Indian Chess
On October 21, 2025, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant unveiled the official logo and anthem for the FIDE World Cup 2025 during a grand ceremony in Panaji, Goa. This marks the return of the prestigious chess tournament to India after 23 years, underscoring the nation’s growing prominence in the global chess arena.
Event Details and Participation
The FIDE World Cup 2025 is scheduled to take place in North Goa from October 31 to November 27, 2025. The tournament will feature 206 elite players from 82 countries, competing in a knockout format for a prize purse of USD 2 million (approximately INR 17.58 crore). This event is poised to be one of the most significant chess tournaments hosted in India in recent history.
Logo Design: Symbolizing Goa’s Spirit
The newly unveiled logo encapsulates Goa’s vibrant cultural identity and the strategic depth of chess. It comprises three trapezoidal panels:
- Green Panel: Features a white palm tree over blue waves, representing Goa’s coastal beauty.
- Red Panel: Displays a white checkerboard pattern, symbolizing chess.
- Yellow Panel: Depicts a stylized sun with curved rays, denoting Goa’s warmth and festive spirit.
Together, these elements reflect the essence of both Goa and the game of chess.
Anthem: “It’s Your Move” by Daler Mehndi
Complementing the visual identity is the official anthem, titled “It’s Your Move,” voiced by legendary singer Daler Mehndi. The anthem blends traditional energy with a modern beat, capturing the spirit and vibrancy of Goa. The music video features appearances by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and top Indian chess stars, including World Champion D. Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, Koneru Humpy, Tania Sachdev, and Vidit Gujarati. The anthem aims to inspire and energize participants and fans alike.
Voices of Support and Celebration
At the launch event, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant expressed pride in Goa’s role as the host, stating,
“This milestone reaffirms our commitment to becoming a global sports destination and celebrates India’s rising prominence in world chess.”
Dr. Ramesh Tawadkar, Minister for Art and Culture, highlighted how the event blends sports, tourism, and tradition, showcasing Goa’s strength beyond leisure. AICF President Nitin Narang emphasized the significance of bringing such a major event to India, noting,
“Hosting the World Cup is not just a sporting milestone, but a national triumph. The anthem will ignite new energy in Indian chess.”

Why This News is Important
Boost to India’s Global Chess Standing
Hosting the FIDE World Cup 2025 signifies India’s growing influence in the global chess community. The involvement of top Indian chess players and the country’s role as the host nation highlight its commitment to promoting the sport and nurturing talent.
Promotion of Goa as a Cultural Hub
The event showcases Goa’s rich cultural heritage, blending traditional elements with the intellectual elegance of chess. This fusion promotes Goa as a vibrant destination for both tourism and international sporting events.
Inspiration for Future Generations
The anthem and the participation of young chess stars serve as an inspiration for aspiring players across the nation. It underscores the importance of strategic thinking, discipline, and dedication in achieving excellence.
Economic and Social Impact
The tournament is expected to boost local economies through tourism, hospitality, and related sectors. It also fosters a sense of community and national pride, bringing people together to celebrate a shared passion for chess.
Legacy for Indian Chess
The successful hosting of the FIDE World Cup 2025 will leave a lasting legacy, encouraging further investment in chess infrastructure and development programs. It sets a precedent for future international chess events in India.
Historical Context
India’s Chess Legacy
India has a rich history in chess, with notable figures such as Viswanathan Anand, a five-time World Chess Champion, bringing international acclaim to the nation. The country’s deep-rooted tradition in chess has paved the way for a new generation of players to emerge on the global stage.
Previous Chess Events in India
The 44th Chess Olympiad, held in Chennai in 2022, marked a significant milestone as it was the first time India hosted the prestigious event. The successful organization of the Olympiad showcased India’s capability to host international chess tournaments and strengthened its position as a chess powerhouse.
Return of the World Cup to India
The FIDE World Cup 2025’s return to India after 23 years underscores the country’s growing stature in the chess world. It reflects the International Chess Federation’s confidence in India’s ability to host and organize major chess events.
Key Takeaways from “India Unveils FIDE World Cup 2025 Logo and Anthem”
| S.No | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1 | Event Dates: The FIDE World Cup 2025 will be held in North Goa from October 31 to November 27, 2025. |
| 2 | Participants: 206 players from 82 countries will compete in a knockout format. |
| 3 | Prize Purse: The tournament offers a prize purse of USD 2 million (approximately INR 17.58 crore). |
| 4 | Logo Design: The logo features elements representing Goa’s coastal beauty, chess, and festive spirit. |
| 5 | Anthem: The official anthem, “It’s Your Move,” voiced by Daler Mehndi, captures the spirit of Goa and chess. |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
1. When and where will the FIDE World Cup 2025 be held?
The FIDE World Cup 2025 will take place in North Goa from October 31 to November 27, 2025.
2. How many players and countries will participate in the tournament?
A total of 206 elite players from 82 countries will compete in a knockout format.
3. Who unveiled the official logo and anthem of the FIDE World Cup 2025?
Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant unveiled the logo and anthem during a ceremony in Panaji, Goa.
4. What is the theme or title of the official anthem?
The official anthem is titled “It’s Your Move” and is sung by Daler Mehndi.
5. Which Indian chess players are featured in the anthem video?
The anthem features World Champion D. Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, Koneru Humpy, Tania Sachdev, and Vidit Gujarati.
6. What is the total prize purse for the tournament?
The total prize purse is USD 2 million (approximately INR 17.58 crore).
7. Why is hosting this event important for India?
It enhances India’s global chess stature, promotes Goa’s tourism, inspires young players, and boosts local economy and sports infrastructure.
8. What elements are included in the official logo?
The logo has a green panel with a palm tree, a red panel with a chessboard pattern, and a yellow panel with a stylized sun, symbolizing Goa’s culture and chess.
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