FIDE Commends Qatar’s Venues Ahead of World Rapid and Blitz Championships

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has lauded Qatar’s sports facilities in preparation for the upcoming World Rapid and Blitz Championships. The prestigious event will take place from December 25 to 31, 2023, at the Qatar University Sports and Events Complex, which FIDE believes will facilitate an exceptional championship experience.

This praise came during a recent inspection visit by a FIDE delegation, which included Victor Bologan, FIDE Executive Director, and Anton Zhuravlev, FIDE Chief Operating Officer. They were joined by Mohammed Al Mudahka, President of the Qatar Chess Association (QCA), to assess the preparations for the tournament.

Confidence in Qatar’s Capabilities

During the visit, Bologan expressed strong confidence in Qatar’s ability to host the championship, highlighting the world-class facilities and efficient operational capabilities at Qatar University. He noted that these strengths will significantly contribute to delivering a high-quality event.

“Qatar has demonstrated its capacity to host world championships effectively,” Bologan stated. “The successful execution of the 2016 edition in Doha earned the country substantial trust within FIDE.” His remarks underlined the importance of this upcoming championship as a continuation of Qatar’s successful history in hosting international chess events.

The delegation’s visit aimed to evaluate the country’s readiness for the championships and to discuss promotional and marketing strategies. Al Mudahka confirmed that several coordination meetings were held to ensure comprehensive arrangements for the event.

Event Logistics and Participation

The venues for the championship finals are confirmed, including the Qatar University Sports and Events Complex, training halls, the main broadcast media center, and official tournament hotels. Al Mudahka announced that the QCA is also preparing domestic activities to promote Qatar’s role in hosting the World Championships.

Highlighting the advantages of the chosen venue, Al Mudahka pointed out the modern sports facilities and high-level infrastructure at Qatar University. He emphasized that the ease of access between the competition venue and accommodations will enhance the overall experience for participants and spectators alike.

Hamad Al-Tamimi, QCA Executive Director and Tournament Director, indicated that the organizing committee is nearing the completion of all necessary preparations. He revealed that ticket sales will open in early November, allowing fans to secure their place at this prestigious event.

Al-Tamimi also noted the significance of the championship for aspiring young players: “This event will provide them with the chance to observe elite stars and top-ranked competitors, inspiring the next generation to pursue chess at a professional level.”

Collaboration between the QCA and FIDE has been ongoing since Qatar’s previous hosting of the World Championships in 2016. The recent visit concluded with agreements on various side events and special promotional programs for the championship, which will be announced in due course.

Hammoud Al-Hajri, Head of Sports Facilities at Qatar University, stated that Qatar is committed to delivering an exceptional edition of the World Rapid and Blitz Championships. The FIDE delegation reportedly expressed admiration for the tournament facilities and playing halls during their review.

The championship boasts a total prize fund of €1 million and is expected to draw approximately 350 male and female players from the top ranks in the chess world. The inaugural World Rapid Championship held in Doha in 2016 was won by Ukrainian grandmaster Vasyl Ivanchuk, featuring 120 grandmasters and 36 women grandmasters.