The Qatar Chess Association (QCA) has reiterated its readiness to host the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Championships 2025, which will bring the world’s top chess stars to Doha from December 26 to 30. QCA President and Organising Committee Chairman Mohammed Ahmed Al-Mudahka, together with QCA Executive Director and Tournament Director Hamad Mohammed Al-Tamimi, confirmed that the event will be held at the Qatar University Sports and Events Complex.
The championship will feature Open and Women’s competitions in both Rapid and Blitz formats, with a total prize fund of more than €1 million. According to FIDE, participation levels are high, with 230 players registered for the Rapid Open and 233 for the Blitz Open, making an overall field of more than 360 players.
The elite line-up is headed by reigning World Champion Gukesh D and former world champion Magnus Carlsen, whose presence has sparked strong interest among fans. Gukesh is expected to be a key contender following his impressive performances this year, including in Zagreb. Other leading players include Ian Nepomniachtchi, Fabiano Caruana, Anish Giri, Wesley So and Levon Aronian. The Women’s events will be led by Women’s World Champion Ju Wenjun, alongside top challengers such as Zhu Jiner, Lei Tingjie, Aleksandra Goryachkina and Humpy Koneru.
