Faig Gasanov turns 85 today!
Born on April 13, 1940, in Tbilisi, Faig Gasanov has dedicated a large part of his life to chess, making significant contributions to the development of the game both in Azerbaijan and around the world.
For many years, Gasanov has shared his vast experience in promoting chess in Azerbaijan, shaping new generations of players, and organizing international tournaments. Since 2007, he has served as the Vice President of the Azerbaijan Chess Federation.
Gasanov enjoys an impeccable reputation in the chess world. As chief arbiter, he officiated over 150 chess competitions, including prestigious super tournaments in Wijk aan Zee, Linares, the Vugar Hashimov Memorial, the Chess Olympiad, the FIDE World Cup, and the FIDE Grand Prix.
His long-running television program Chess Club, which he both authored and hosted on Azerbaijan’s first television channel, AzTV, is celebrating its 56th year on air—setting a national broadcasting record.
In 2010, on the occasion of his 70th birthday, Faig Gasanov was awarded a special Gold Diploma of Achievement in recognition of his outstanding service to the International Chess Federation (FIDE) and the global chess community. In 2016, he received the Honorary Award for his contributions to FIDE as an International Arbiter.
In addition to his international recognition, Gasanov has been honored by the Azerbaijani government with the “Glory” and “Honor” Orders, as well as the President of Azerbaijan’s Honorary Diploma, for his contributions to the development of chess in the country.
Most recently, in 2024, Gasanov was awarded the honorary FIDE 100 Medal for his lifelong dedication to the game and his exceptional service to the chess world.
Many happy returns of the day!