FIDE praises Qatar's preparations for World Rapid and Blitz Championships

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has lauded Qatar’s world-class sporting facilities and organisational capabilities, saying they will help deliver a unique and exceptional edition of the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Championships, which will be held in Doha from December 25 to 31.A FIDE delegation visited the Sports and Events Complex at Qatar University to review preparations for the global event. The delegation included FIDE Executive Director Victor Bologan, FIDE Chief Operating Officer Anton Zhuravliev and Qatar Chess Association (QCA) President Mohammed al-Mudahka.Bologan expressed his confidence in Qatar’s ability to host a successful championship, highlighting the country’s modern infrastructure and operational efficiency. He said Qatar’s proven record in staging major international tournaments, including the 2016 World Rapid Championships, strengthened its bid to host this year’s event. "The world-class facilities at Qatar University and the high level of professionalism we’ve seen here will ensure a remarkable edition of the World Championship,” Bologan said. He added that the visit aimed to assess preparations and discuss promotional and marketing plans for the tournament.QCA President al-Mudahka said several coordination meetings were held during the visit to finalise arrangements for hosting an exceptional championship. "We are working closely with FIDE to ensure that all aspects of the tournament reflect the standardsQatar is known for,” he said, adding that discussions are underway to organise additional events to promote the championship.Al-Mudahka confirmed that the Sports and Events Complex at Qatar University will serve as the main venue, alongside designated training halls, a media centre, and official hotels for participants. He also revealed plans to launch local promotional activities in the lead-up to the tournament."The modern infrastructure and convenient transport links between venues, facilities, and accommodations will contribute to a seamless experience for players and visitors alike,” al-Mudahka said.QCA Executive Director and Tournament Director Hamad al-Tamimi said preparations are nearing completion, with ticket sales expected to open in early November. "The World Championship will offer young players a chance to watch the best in action and inspire future generations to pursue the game at a professional level,” he said.Al-Tamimi noted that cooperation between the Qatari and international federations dates back years, with the 2016 edition serving as a milestone. He said both sides agreed on plans for side events and special programs to promote the championship, details of which will be announced later.Engineer Hamoud al-Hajri, Head of Sports Facilities at Qatar University, said hosting the championship aligns with the university’s mission to support sports and culture."The FIDE delegation expressed great admiration for our facilities. Hosting such a prestigious event will have a positive impact on our students and help spread the culture of chess in society,” he said.The 2025 World Rapid and Blitz Championships will feature around 350 top-ranked players competing for a total prize pool of 1mn euros. The last edition held in Doha, in 2016, was won by Ukrainian Grandmaster Vasiliy Ivanchuk.