Goa Unveils Logo and Anthem for FIDE World Cup 2025, Marking India’s Return as Global Chess Powerhouse

Panaji, Oct 2025 : The official logo and anthem of the FIDE World Cup 2025 were unveiled on Tuesday by Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant at a glittering ceremony celebrating the state’s rich cultural heritage and India’s rising prominence in the global chess arena.

According to an All India Chess Federation (AICF) release, the anthem — sung by music icon Daler Mehndi — captures the vibrancy, rhythm, and spirit of Goa while echoing the strategic brilliance of chess. The grand event marks the countdown to one of the world’s most prestigious chess tournaments, returning to India after a gap of 23 years.

The FIDE World Cup 2025 will take place in North Goa from October 31 to November 27, bringing together 206 top players from 82 countries to compete in a thrilling knockout format. The total prize purse of USD 2 million (approximately ₹17.58 crore) underscores the tournament’s stature as one of the most important events on the international chess calendar.

Celebrating Goa’s Spirit and India’s Chess Legacy

Speaking at the launch, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant expressed pride at Goa being chosen to host the World Cup, calling it a landmark moment for the state and the nation. “It is a matter of immense pride for Goa to host the FIDE World Cup 2025, one of the most prestigious events in global chess,” he said. “This achievement not only reaffirms our commitment to making Goa a global sports destination but also celebrates India’s growing reputation on the world chess stage. The logo and anthem reflect Goa’s spirit — vibrant, creative, and deeply rooted in culture — while capturing the strategic beauty of chess. We look forward to welcoming the world’s finest players for 28 days of intense competition and cultural exchange.”

The tournament symbolizes India’s strengthening position in international chess, following a decade of rapid growth, youthful dominance, and historic milestones.

India’s Young Titans to Lead the Charge

The Indian contingent will be led by World Champion D. Gukesh, supported by a formidable lineup of rising stars including Arjun Erigaisi, R. Praggnanandhaa, Nihal Sarin, and Vidit Gujrathi.

Women’s World Cup Champion Divya Deshmukh will also make her first domestic appearance following her recent triumph, further adding to the home team’s excitement.

Adding a global flavor to the event, the tournament will also feature 12-year-old Argentine prodigy Faustino Oro, often dubbed the “Messi of Chess.” His participation as the youngest competitor in the 2025 edition will make history and add a new dimension of youthful inspiration to the championship.

A Cultural Showcase Beyond the Chessboard

Goa’s Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Ramesh Tawadkar, AICF President Nitin Narang, and AICF Secretary Dev Patel were also present at the unveiling ceremony.

Ramesh Tawadkar said the FIDE World Cup presents a unique opportunity to merge sports, culture, and tourism on an international platform. “The World Cup is a chance to bring together culture, art, and competition in one grand celebration,” he said. “Goa’s heritage and hospitality will shine through as we host the world’s best players. This event will not only promote excellence on the chessboard but also highlight Goa as a global sports and tourism hub.”

The Anthem – ‘It’s Your Move’

At the heart of the celebration lies the official anthem — a lively musical tribute to India’s strategic brilliance and youthful energy. Titled “It’s Your Move”, the song fuses the pulse of Indian culture with the intellectual excitement of chess.

Performed by Daler Mehndi, known for his powerful and energetic performances, the anthem embodies the dynamism and confidence of a new India taking bold steps on the world stage.

The music video, featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India’s leading chess grandmasters including D. Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, Koneru Humpy, Tania Sachdev, and Vidit Gujrathi, serves as a rousing call to action for the next generation of chess enthusiasts. “The anthem captures the growing strength of Indian chess,” said Mehndi. “It celebrates our youth, our energy, and our spirit to conquer the world through intellect and creativity.”

AICF: ‘A Proud Moment for Indian Chess’

Expressing gratitude to the Goa Government, AICF President Nitin Narang said hosting the FIDE World Cup 2025 marks a historic milestone for Indian chess. “Winning the right to host this World Cup is a moment of national pride,” Narang said. “After 23 years, India is once again in the global spotlight. This tournament will inspire millions across the country to take up the game. The anthem, with its energy and rhythm, will help bring chess from clubs and academies into every Indian home.”

Narang added that the championship will showcase India’s organizational excellence and commitment to promoting sports culture across the country.

The Tournament Format and Logo Design

The FIDE World Cup will follow a knockout format, where the top three players will qualify for the 2026 Candidates Tournament — the final gateway to the World Chess Championship.

The event’s logo embodies Goa’s natural charm and vibrant culture through three distinctive trapezoidal panels:

• The green panel depicts a white palm tree and blue wave, symbolizing Goa’s lush landscape and coastal beauty.
• The red panel bears a diamond-shaped checkerboard pattern, reflecting the geometry of chess.
• The yellow panel features a stylized sun with radiating rays, signifying Goa’s warmth, light, and hospitality.

Together, these elements create a visual identity that blends Goa’s tropical elegance with the intellectual allure of chess.

Global Chess Returns to India

The return of the FIDE World Cup to India after more than two decades signifies the country’s emergence as a true chess superpower — not only through the achievements of its prodigious young players but also through its ability to host world-class events.

The 2025 edition in Goa promises to be more than a tournament; it will be a celebration of intellect, culture, and creativity — an event where the strategic brilliance of chess meets the soulful rhythm of India.

As the lights of the opening ceremony fade and the first moves are played, Goa will stand as the stage where minds from across the world come together — to compete, to create, and to celebrate the timeless beauty of the game.