Taleigao, 3rd November 2025 Goa marked a historic milestone in its journey toward becoming India’s premier sports tourism destination with the grand inauguration of the FIDE World Cup 2025 at Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium, Taleigao. Organized by the Directorate of Sports & Youth Affairs and the Sports Authority of Goa, the tournament, scheduled from 31st October to 27th November 2025, has brought the world’s top chess players and international delegates to Goa’s shores.
The Opening Ceremony was presided over by Dr. Pramod Sawant, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, and Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Hon’ble Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports, Labour & Employment, Government of India. Also gracing the occasion were Dr. Ramesh Tawadkar, Hon’ble Minister for Art & Culture, Tribal Welfare and Sports & Youth Affairs, Government of Goa; Arkady Dvorkovich, President, FIDE; Dr. V. Candavelou, IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Goa; and Shri Nitin Narang, President, AICF.
Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A Khaunte said, “Goa has evolved from being a leisure destination to an emerging centre for international sporting excellence. The hosting of the FIDE World Cup is a testament to our commitment to promote sports tourism, diversify experiences, and create new opportunities for our youth and communities.”
Highlighting this momentum, Director Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik stated, “Through events like the FIDE World Cup, we are showcasing Goa’s readiness to host global sporting spectacles that not only enhance our tourism offerings but also inspire our youth towards excellence in sports.”
Much emphasis was placed over Goa’s world-class infrastructure and hospitality, noting that the state has become a model for integrating sports, tourism, and economic growth, in line with India’s broader vision of positioning itself as a global sports powerhouse.
Over the past few years, Goa has successfully hosted several prestigious events that have contributed to its sports tourism profile, including the National Games 2023, Ironman 70.3 Goa, GFA football league, RFC and more upcoming events like the Rugby Tournament. Each of these events has brought national and international visibility, drawing sports enthusiasts and travelers from around the world.
From adventure sports in the hinterlands to world-class indoor championships, Goa continues to expand its sporting portfolio, strengthening its identity as a destination that seamlessly blends sport, culture, and tourism.
As the FIDE World Cup unfolds over the next month, it stands as a beacon of Goa’s progressive vision, transforming the state into a vibrant hub for international sports tourism, powered by its infrastructure, inclusivity, and enduring hospitality.
