In a landmark move, the inaugural FIDE World Cup for young chess players will take place from June 22 to July 3, 2024, in Batumi, Georgia

This new event aims to redefine the youth chess landscape with a revamped system and offer more opportunities for young chess players.

The tournament will be held in three age groups – under 8, under 10 and under 12 – in two categories, Open and Girls, with 48 participants in each. The competition will unfold in two stages, starting with a seven-round Swiss System featuring two groups of 24 players each. The subsequent stage will witness players in the same position from each group facing off against one another, elevating the intensity and excitement of the matches.

The organizes will cover accommodation and flight costs for top qualifying players. Heads of delegations with more than four players will be provided with a full board and accommodation. Federations should refer to the invitation letter for all the details regarding eligibility for the event and support.

Federations are urged to confirm their participation by February 1, 2024, based on the 2023 World Cadets Chess Championship results. The registration deadline for this prestigious event is April 22, 2024.

The organizers are committed to delivering excellent playing conditions, with the players staying in the same hotel where the event will be taking place. On a rest day, participants can take part in several activities. These include a Delegation Coaches Blitz Tournament with a substantial prize fund of 4,000 Euros, the Chess Composition World Cup under 8, 10, 12, engaging cultural programs, and a football match between FIDE and Georgian Chess Federation.

The event will feature special prizes for top achievers across six playing categories. Each category's top three players will receive awards, including Cups, Medals, Diplomas, and gadgets such as MacBook Air 2022, iPhone 15, or an iPad (depending on placement).

In addition to these grand prizes, the first three winners of each age category and gender will receive free full board accommodation for the World Cadets Championship later in the same year, while every participant will be awarded a certificate acknowledging their participation.

"We are tremendously excited about this inaugural event, marking the very first time the World Cup is dedicated to young talents. We expect that the tournament will attract global public interest and raise global awareness of chess. Our foremost commitment is to ensure a memorable and enriching experience for players and their families in Georgia. FIDE's dedicated efforts toward promoting and nurturing chess among children remain a cornerstone of our mission, and we are steadfast in our resolve to advance this cause," said Akaki Iashvili, Chair of FIDE's Events Commission and the President of the Georgian Chess Federation.

More information about the event can be found here: wcc2024.fide.com/  as well as in the invitation letter sent to the federations.

Invitation letter and regulations (pdf)

Photo: Mark Livshitz