FIDE World Cup Trophy Renamed Viswanathan Anand Cup to Honor India’s Chess Legend

In a historic tribute, the FIDE Chess World Cup 2025 trophy has been officially renamed the “Viswanathan Anand Cup”, honoring India’s five-time world chess champion and first Grandmaster. The announcement was made during a glittering ceremony in Panjim, Goa, attended by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Goa CM Pramod Sawant, and FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich, marking a proud moment for Indian chess.

All India Chess Federation (AICF) President Nitin Narang unveiled the running trophy, declaring: “This emblem celebrates the legacy of @vishy64theking — a beacon for generations of chess prodigies.” The Viswanathan Anand Cup will now be awarded to the Open section winner of the prestigious knockout tournament, held in Goa from October 30 to November 27, 2025, cementing Anand’s indelible impact on global chess.

The event features 206 elite players from 80 countries battling across eight classical knockout rounds. India’s rising stars D Gukesh, R Praggnanandhaa, and reigning World Women’s Cup champion Divya Deshmukh (who conducted the draw) lead the charge. However, Magnus Carlsen and Hikaru Nakamura will skip the event, opening the door for new contenders to claim the inaugural Anand Cup.

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Anand, a pioneer who broke barriers with his 1991 world championship final appearance and 2000 FIDE title, inspired India’s chess revolution. From Chennai’s quiet lanes to global domination, his journey transformed India into a chess superpower — producing world champions, grandmasters, and millions of young players.

With the Viswanathan Anand Cup, FIDE ensures his name will echo through chess history — a living legacy for every future champion who lifts it.

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