Doha, Qatar is set to host the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships once again, from December 26 to 30, 2025, at the Qatar University Sports and Events Complex. The event, announced yesterday by the Qatar Chess Association (QCA), will bring together the world’s elite chess players to compete for a total prize fund exceeding €1 million. This marks the second time the Qatari capital has been selected to stage the prestigious tournament, solidifying its position as a leading sports hub.
QCA President Mohammed Ahmed Al-Mudahka and Tournament Director Hamad Mohammed Al-Tamimi revealed details of the competition during a press conference held at the Rosewood Doha hotel. The championships will encompass both Open and Women’s competitions in the Rapid and Blitz formats, attracting significant international participation and attention to the sport of chess.
Qatar Prepares to Welcome World-Class Chess Competition
According to organizers, over 360 players have already registered to participate in the event. Doha is distinguished as the only city to have hosted the World Rapid and Blitz Championships twice, a testament to the QCA’s dedication to fostering chess within the country and its capability to manage large-scale international sporting events. This commitment extends beyond simply hosting, and includes investment in local talent development.
The men’s championship is anticipated to be exceptionally competitive, featuring reigning World Champion Gukesh D. He will face a strong challenge from former world champion Magnus Carlsen, who is returning after a close contest at the 2024 event in New York. Also competing will be 2024 co-champion Ian Nepomniachtchi, along with Fabiano Caruana, Anish Giri, Wesley So, and Levon Aronian.
Rising Stars to Challenge Established Champions
Alongside these established names, a promising new generation of players will also vie for the title. Vincent Keymer, Arjun Erigaisi, Nodirbek Abdusattorov, Praggnanandhaa R, Yagiz Kaan Erdogmus and Ediz Gurel are expected to provide dynamic gameplay and potential upsets throughout the tournament. The increased participation of young competitors signifies growth within the chess community.
The Women’s Championships promise a similar level of excitement. Current Women’s World Champion Ju Wenjun will lead the competition, alongside strong contenders like Zhu Jiner, Lei Tingjie, Aleksandra Goryachkina, and Humpy Koneru. Anna Muzychuk, a previous double champion in Doha (2016), will be making a return appearance with her sister, Mariya, adding a compelling narrative to the event.
Securing funding for the championships was a priority for the QCA. Several premium sponsors, including the Social and Sport Contribution Fund (DAAM), Ooredoo, Mowasalat (Karwa), Total, Al Abdulghani Motors, AlkaLive and Qatar University, have signed agreements to support the event. These sponsorships are vital for ensuring a smooth and successful tournament experience for participants and spectators alike.
The staging of these championships aligns with Qatar’s broader strategy to become a global sports destination, hosting numerous international events across various disciplines. The country has demonstrated a consistent commitment to investing in sports infrastructure and attracting top-tier competitions, enhancing its international profile. Organizers expect a sizable boost in sports tourism with the event.
Looking ahead, the QCA will focus on finalizing logistical arrangements and ensuring a world-class infrastructure for the players. Further announcements regarding broadcast details and potential spectator access are expected in the coming months. The success of the event will likely influence future bids from Qatar to host additional FIDE tournaments, although the organization’s long-term plans remain subject to ongoing evaluation and potential changes in international sporting calendars.
