The 2025 Chess World Cup, organized by the International Chess Federation (FIDE), has officially kicked off in Goa, India, featuring 206 players from more than 100 countries across the globe. Among the participants is Libyan chess player Naji Bougnaida, representing Libya on the international stage.
The opening ceremony was attended by senior officials from FIDE and the Indian Chess Federation, as well as several former and current world champions. The event was marked by a festive atmosphere reflecting the growing global enthusiasm for the sport.
Bougnaida is set to play his first match in the preliminary round of the knockout-format tournament, which will run until November 27. His participation comes under the sponsorship and support of the Libyan Ministry of Sports, as part of its strategic plan to develop individual sports and empower national talents to shine in international competitions and raise Libya’s flag on the world stage.