Panaji, Oct 21 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Goa, Pramod Sawant, officially launched the emblem and anthem for the FIDE World Cup 2025 on Tuesday. After a 23-year hiatus, this prestigious tournament will host 206 players from 82 countries.

Scheduled to take place in North Goa from October 31 to November 27, 2025, the FIDE World Cup 2025 is one of the most esteemed events on the international chess calendar. It promises a thrilling knockout competition with a prize pool of USD 2 million (approximately INR 17.58 crore).

The logo captures Goa's vibrant, culturally rich identity, showcasing the state's coastal allure along with the strategic sophistication of chess. The anthem, performed by the iconic Daler Mehndi, adds a layer of grandeur and mystique to the event.

During the launch, CM Sawant expressed, “Hosting the FIDE World Cup 2025 is a proud moment for Goa. This event not only underscores our state's ambition to be a premier sport destination but also celebrates India's growing stature in the global chess arena. The logo and anthem encapsulate the essence of Goa—rich in culture and creativity—while highlighting the strategic nuances of chess. We are poised to welcome the world’s elite players for 28 days of exceptional competition, camaraderie, and a fusion of Goa's spirit with the brilliance of chess.”

The Indian team will be led by the reigning World Champion D. Gukesh, alongside top players like Arjun Erigaisi, R. Praggnanandhaa, Nihal Sarin, Vidit Gujarathi, and the Women’s World Cup Champion Divya Deshmukh, who will be making her first home appearance since her historic victory.

A notable participant is the young Argentinian talent, Faustino Oro, known as the “Messi of Chess,” who will make history as the youngest player in the 2025 edition.

The official anthem is a vibrant tribute to India's strategic capabilities and youthful dynamism, featuring the Prime Minister in its music video. It reflects the spirit of the nation while celebrating the brilliance of chess, with Daler Mehndi injecting his signature energy into the anthem.

Titled “It’s Your Move,” the song encapsulates India’s ascendance in world chess and showcases the vibrancy of its culture. The accompanying video highlights India’s leading chess grandmasters, including D. Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, Koneru Humpy, Tania Sachdev, and Vidit Gujarati, representing a new generation elevating Indian chess.

AICF president Nitin Narang expressed gratitude to the Goa government for their support, stating, “Winning the hosting rights for the FIDE World Cup 2025 is a historic moment for India and reflects our increasing credibility in the global chess community. Bringing such a significant tournament back to our shores—after 23 years—is not just a sporting milestone but a proud national achievement. It offers Indian fans a unique chance to see the world’s finest players compete on home soil, inspiring future generations to embrace the sport. The anthem will reinvigorate chess across the nation, propelling it from clubs and academies into every Indian home.”

In this World Cup, players will compete in a knockout format, with the top three finishers earning qualification for the 2026 Candidates Tournament, the crucial phase leading to the World Chess Championship.