FIDE World Chess Cup Trophy Named After Viswanathan Anand: Honouring India’s Chess Legend

By Admin

01 Nov, 2025

The chess world witnessed a historic and emotional moment as the new FIDE World Chess Cup Trophy was officially christened the Viswanathan Anand Trophy, in honour of India’s five-time world champion and first Grandmaster, Viswanathan Anand. The unveiling took place during a colourful opening ceremony in Panjim, Goa, attended by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, and FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich.

A Tribute to the King of Chess

Announcing the new trophy, All India Chess Federation (AICF) President Nitin Narang expressed immense pride and joy, saying, “Extremely proud and delighted to announce the Viswanathan Anand Cup, the FIDE World Cup (Open) Winner’s Running Trophy, instituted in honour of the King of Chess and India’s first Grandmaster, Shri Viswanathan Anand.” He added that this magnificent trophy stands as a symbol of the great strides Indian chess has made and Anand’s lasting legacy, destined to inspire future generations of chess prodigies.

Symbolism in Design

The Viswanathan Anand Trophy is a masterpiece of artistry and symbolism. Designed with a peacock in a frozen dancing form, it represents India’s national bird and embodies grace, intellect, and timeless beauty   qualities that mirror the spirit of the game and Anand’s illustrious career. The design captures the charm of chess while celebrating India’s cultural heritage.

Prestigious Tournament in Goa

The FIDE World Chess Cup 2025, featuring a $2 million prize pool, brings together 206 players from 80 countries. The event comprises eight knockout rounds of classical games, with the top three finishers qualifying for the Candidates Tournament 2026   the gateway to the next World Championship match.

The top 50 seeds, including reigning world champion D. Gukesh, have received byes into the second round, while 156 competitors begin their campaigns on November 1. Each match consists of two classical games, and if tied, will be decided through rapid and blitz tie-breaks.

A New Era for Indian Chess

This year’s World Cup marks a historic return to India   the first time since 2002, when Anand defeated Rustam Kasimdzhanov in the final in Hyderabad. Over two decades later, India now stands as a chess powerhouse with young world champion D. Gukesh, Olympiad team titles in both Open and Women’s categories, and Divya Deshmukh, the reigning Women’s World Cup winner, who also conducted the draw of lots during the ceremony.

Joining them are India’s brightest stars   Arjun Erigaisi, R. Praggnanandhaa, and Nihal Sarin   all ready to make their mark on the global stage.

International Contenders Bring Global Prestige

The tournament also features top international grandmasters, including Germany’s Vincent Keymer, currently world No. 4, who has been in remarkable form, and Anish Giri, the Samarkand Grand Swiss winner, entering the event with high morale and a secured spot in the Candidates.

The American duo of Wesley So and Levon Aronian add further intensity to the competition. Aronian, the 2017 World Cup winner, continues to display his elite form, while So recently finished second at the U.S. Championship. With 22 players rated 2700 or higher, the 2025 World Cup promises a chess spectacle of the highest calibre.

A Proud Moment for India

The unveiling of the Viswanathan Anand Trophy is not just a celebration of a player but a recognition of India’s monumental rise in the world of chess. From a single Grandmaster to a nation producing global champions, the journey has come full circle   honouring the man who started it all.