Astana, Kazakhstan – The FIDE World Team Rapid and Blitz Championships 2024 commenced with a week of chess festivities, highlighted by a spectacular opening ceremony held at the Astana Amphitheater on the Esil River Embankment. This event marked the beginning of an exciting week of world-class chess competitions, celebrating the game's rich heritage and future.

The opening ceremony began with FIDE's Torch Relay, an event commemorating the 100th anniversary of the International Chess Federation. The relay started at the "Atameken" monument and culminated at the Amphitheater, showcasing a parade of top chess players, local authorities, and prominent figures from Kazakhstan.

Among the distinguished torchbearers were the FIDE President, Arkady Dvorkovich, Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Oljas Bektenov, President of Kazakhstan Chess Federation Timur Turlov, and current World Champions Ding Liren and Ju Wenjun. They were joined by young chess stars such as Bibisara Asaubaeva, symbolizing the future of the sport in Kazakhstan.

The ceremony officially kicked off with the arrival of the Prime Minister and other esteemed guests, followed by a moving performance of the National Anthem of Kazakhstan. Prime Minister Bektenov delivered a heartfelt opening address, highlighting the significance of the event for Kazakhstan and the global chess community: "The International Chess Federation, with more than a century of history, became a reputable and well-known organization, which brought together over 200 countries around the chessboard. FIDE's famous slogan, "We are one Family", signifies that chess is not only an intellectual sport but also a deep science and incredible art. In this regard, the lighting of the Olympic torch in the city of Astana is a great pride for the people of Kazakhstan."

FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich also shared his thoughts, celebrating the Federation's centenary and the collaborative spirit of the chess world.  "This gathering today is particularly significant as it marks the first formal FIDE event since World Chess Day on July 20th, the day FIDE was officially established in 1924. As we step into FIDE's second century, it is fitting to host such a prestigious event here in Kazakhstan. This is our way of expressing our deepest appreciation for all that you have done and continue to do for the chess community. Let us look forward to a spectacular tournament and a promising future for FIDE and the world of chess," he said, greeted with a round of applause.

President of Kazakhstan Chess Federation Timur Turlov stressed the significance of holding the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Team Championship and expressed his gratitude to FIDE for assistance in their joint endeavors. "For us, a young nation, and hundreds of children who are learning chess today in clubs, sections and their schools, it is you – the chess world stars – who are the main conductors of the values of this noble game, idols of hundreds of thousands of young Kazakhstanis. You motivate people to play chess, improve and follow the main trends."

In a moment of unity and pride, the FIDE 100th Anniversary Torch was ceremonially transferred from President Dvorkovich to Prime Minister Bektenov, who then passed it on to Timur Turlov, President of the Kazakhstan Chess Federation. The relay continued with notable participants, including world champions, young prodigies, and influential figures, all contributing to the electric atmosphere.

As the relay concluded, former women's World Champion and current Women's Number one, Hou Yifan, took center stage to light the ceremonial bowl, a symbol of the enduring flame of chess. This was followed by a stunning display of cold fireworks, and all torchbearers were invited onto the stage, where they were introduced and celebrated.

The ceremony continued with a dynamic mass dance performance, speeches from key officials, and a musical interlude. Chief Arbiter Laurent Freyd and Grandmaster Jan Gustafsson conducted the draw to determine the first-round colors. The color drawn was black, which means that the first board will be played with black pieces.

To conclude the evening, the President of FIDE declared the Championships officially open, accompanied by a countdown and a dazzling fireworks display. The opening ceremony's headliner, the "Orda" band, delivered a memorable performance, setting a festive tone for the championships.

The FIDE World Team Rapid and Blitz Championships 2024 in Astana promises to be a landmark event, bringing together the best in chess and celebrating the game's global community.

Photos: Ruslan Mazunin and Maria Emelianova

Website of the event: World Rapid and Blitz Team Championship 2024 (fide.com)

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