Opening ceremony of the FIDE World Cup dazzles in Goa

The 2025 FIDE World Cup opened in grand style at the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium in Goa, as dignitaries, players and guests gathered for a dazzling 2½-hour ceremony blending culture, sport and symbolism. With 206 players set to compete for a $2 million prize fund and three coveted Candidates spots, the event began with music, dance and inspiring speeches celebrating India’s chess tradition and the spirit of fair play that defines the game. | All photos: Mark Livshitz