Panaji, Oct 27 (NationPress) World Chess Champion D. Gukesh is looking forward to his return to Goa, a location that holds sentimental value from his formative years as a player. He is preparing to spearhead the Indian team at the prestigious FIDE World Cup 2025.

"I am genuinely thrilled about the World Cup. Competing anywhere in India is a privilege, and I cherish wonderful memories from Goa. I’ve participated in several junior tournaments there. I can't wait to be back," Gukesh remarked, noting that he will enter the competition as the top seed.

His previous visit to Goa was in 2019, where he achieved a commendable 10th place in the Category ‘A’ Goa International Open Grandmasters Chess Tournament, despite being an underdog.

Now, as the reigning world champion, Gukesh aims to make this trip to the coastal paradise, famous as one of India's premier tourist spots, unforgettable.

The FIDE World Cup, a pivotal event in the chess world, will be held in India for the first time in 23 years, taking place at a North Goa resort from October 31 to November 27, 2025.

This tournament will see 206 players from 82 countries fighting for a prize pool of $2 million. The competition will follow a knockout format, with the top three finishers earning spots in the 2026 Candidates Tournament.

Gukesh has received a bye in the first round and is anticipated to challenge Kazybez Nogerbek from Kazakhstan in the second round.

Dutch Grandmaster Anish Giri, another strong contender aiming for the USD 120,000 prize, is also excited about the tournament. He has already secured his place in the Candidates through the 2025 FIDE Grand Swiss tournament.

Having booked his spot in the Candidates 2026, which will determine Gukesh's challenger in the forthcoming World Championship cycle, Giri will feel less pressure entering the FIDE World Cup.

"The World Cup is an excellent event, and I’m excited to participate. It’s fun to compete," said Giri, the highest-ranked international player in the field.

Regarding the pressure faced by many top players vying for qualification to the Candidates 2026 through the FIDE World Cup 2025, Giri commented, "It’s a complex qualification journey, regardless of the format. I have been through many World Cups; once I nearly qualified through this route, losing in the semi-finals to Peter Svidler in 2015."

Since its inception in 2005, the FIDE World Cup has maintained a knockout format, with only Viswanathan Anand from India and Levon Aronian from Armenia winning the title twice.

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