The global chess community is turning its attention towards Central Asia as FIDE officially announces Samarkand, Uzbekistan, as the host city for the prestigious 2025 FIDE Grand Swiss and Women`s Grand Swiss tournaments. Scheduled to take place from September 3rd to 16th, 2025, this marks a significant moment as Uzbekistan welcomes this elite event for the first time, showcasing its deep chess heritage and rising prominence on the international stage.
The Stakes: A Direct Line to the Candidates
The FIDE Grand Swiss is not merely a high-level tournament; it is a critical stepping stone on the path to the World Championship title. Acting as a direct qualifier, the event grants spots in the subsequent Candidates Tournament. The top two finishers in the Open section will secure their places in the 2026 Candidates Tournament, while the top two players in the Women`s Grand Swiss will qualify for the 2026 Women`s Candidates Tournament. The pressure is immense, as only the strongest, most consistent performers will earn the right to contend for the ultimate challenge.
Financial Boost: Rewarding Excellence
In a move that underscores the increasing professionalization and value of top-tier chess, FIDE has announced a substantial increase in the prize funds for both events. The total prize fund for the Open Grand Swiss has been significantly boosted from $460,000 to a robust $625,000 – a commendable 36% increase. The Women`s Grand Swiss sees an even more dramatic rise, jumping from $140,000 to $230,000, an impressive 64% increase. While the pursuit of intellectual victory remains central, it appears FIDE is keen to ensure that strategic brilliance is also met with tangible financial reward.
Tournament Structure and Initial Line-Up
Both tournaments will adhere to the challenging 11-round Swiss system format, designed to test the endurance and adaptability of the participants. A total of 170 players are expected to compete: 114 in the Open event and 56 in the Women`s event. The initial lists of qualified players, determined by rating with a requirement of at least 30 rated games played, have been released. This first wave includes 100 players for the Open and 44 for the Women`s sections, featuring many of the world`s elite. However, these lists are preliminary. The final rosters will be completed by players qualifying through continental representation, nominations by the FIDE President, and selections made by the organizing committee, promising a diverse and competitive field.
Samarkand: A Fitting Host
Choosing Samarkand, a city synonymous with the historical Silk Road and a cultural heartland, adds a layer of historical depth to the competition. Uzbekistan has a rich chess tradition, producing numerous strong players, and its growing presence in global chess governance makes it a natural fit for hosting such a prestigious event. The blend of ancient history and modern sporting ambition sets the stage for a memorable tournament.
As the September 2025 dates approach, the chess world will eagerly watch as the field for the FIDE Grand Swiss in Samarkand solidifies, anticipating the fierce battles that will determine who takes the next crucial step towards challenging for the World Championship crowns.
Gilbert Pendleton 
Marcus Blakely