Young chess enthusiasts from around the globe are preparing for the second edition of the FIDE World Cup for young chess players, set to take place from June 22 to July 3, 2025, in the picturesque city of Batumi, Georgia. This prestigious tournament is expected to attract talent across three age categories: Under 8, Under 10, and Under 12, with divisions for both Open and Girls.
The event will be structured over two phases. The first stage will follow the seven-round Swiss System format, splitting participants—48 from each age category—into two groups of 24 players each. Top players based on their performance will advance to the second stage, where they will engage in classical matches, followed by tiebreaks if necessary. This format not only promises intense competition but also ensures fairness and the best chess practices.
According to FIDE, "the organizers will cover accommodation and flight costs for top qualifying players," ensuring equal opportunities for all participants, regardless of their financial background. This approach aims to encourage young chess talents from around the world to participate without the burden of significant travel expenses.
Delegation heads bringing more than four players will also receive full board and accommodation arrangements, making the logistics of participation easier and more attractive. Another significant aspect of the tournament is financial support for the top three players, who, based on their FIDE ratings as of April 1, 2025, will receive air ticket compensation. Players from the same continent will receive €600, whereas those traveling from different continents will be entitled to €1,200.
To participate, invited federations must confirm their involvement by February 1, 2025, which will be based on the results from the previous year's World Cadets Chess Championships. Registration for the World Cup closes on April 22, 2025, so interested players are urged to secure their spots as soon as possible.
The organizers of the event are committed to providing excellent playing conditions, with participants staying at the same venue where the competition will occur. Batumi, located along the Black Sea, is known for its favorable climate, particularly during June and July, where temperatures can range from 27°C (80°F) to 33°C (90°F). Such weather conditions are ideal for both competitive play and leisure activities.
On June 30, the event will feature rest days with multiple side activities. Among the highlights is the Delegation Coaches Blitz Tournament, which boasts a notable prize fund of €4,000. Other exciting opportunities include engaging excursions to popular local attractions, like Batumi Dolphinarium and Batumi Botanical Garden, and even friendly competitions, including a football match featuring teams from FIDE and the Georgian Chess Federation.
Prizes are another major attraction of the tournament. The top three players from each category will receive awards—including cups, medals, diplomas, and high-end gadgets like the MacBook Air (2023/2024), iPhone 16, or iPad, depending on their final placements. Remarkably, the top three finishers in each age and gender category will also be awarded full-board accommodation for the World Cadets Chess Championship later in the season, paving the way for continued success.
All participants will receive certificates recognizing their efforts and contribution to the event, fostering a sense of achievement and acknowledgment among the upcoming chess stars.
For more information about the event, interested parties can access the Invitation Letter or reach out via the contact email [email protected]. The official event website, wcc2025.fide.com/, will also serve as the primary source of information as the tournament date approaches.