The FIDE 100 Torch Relay, commemorating the centenary of the International Chess Federation (FIDE), arrived in the Georgian capital today, marking a significant milestone in the year-long global celebrations

The torch, which began its journey in India in February, was ceremoniously lit this afternoon at the Congress Hall of the Biltmore Hotel by FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich and President of the Georgian Chess Federation Akaki Iashvili, along with other distinguished guests.

"It is my pleasure and honor to be here for the first stage of the Women's Grand Prix. I am delighted to celebrate FIDE's 100th anniversary. The torch has traveled to many countries, including Canada just a few days ago, and now it has arrived in Tbilisi. I would like to thank the Georgian authorities and the Georgian Chess Federation for welcoming us. Georgia has consistently hosted top-level events, and we are grateful for that. I am sure we will return here again," said FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich.

Akaki Iashvili informed the audience about an ongoing project to provide Georgian chess players with the best instructive chess books, translated into Georgian. During the ceremony, these books were handed out to Georgian players by FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich.

The event was graced by the presence of Georgian and international chess dignitaries, including participants of the Women's Grand Prix tournament, all of whom wore white shirts with the FIDE100 insignia and the Georgian flag on the sleeve.

One of Georgia's most revered chess figures, Nona Gaprindashvili, delighted the audience by playing a friendly chess match with FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich. In a twist, midway through the game, they stepped away from the board, inviting another pair of players—Anna Muzychuk and Alina Kashlinskaya—to continue the match. The game was then passed along to other participants in the Women's Grand Prix.

In celebration of the occasion, a giant 120cm tall commemorative cake shaped like a chess queen was presented at the end of the ceremony.

Women's World Cup dates announced

During the FIDE 100 ceremony in Tbilisi, FIDE officially announced the dates and location for the upcoming Women's World Cup.

The tournament is set to take place in the picturesque seaside city of Batumi, Georgia, from July 5 to 29, 2025. This announcement marks a significant milestone in the chess calendar, as the Women's World Cup will bring together the world's top female players to compete in one of the most anticipated events of the year.

An important place for Georgian and chess history

The venue for the FIDE 100 ceremony, the Congress Hall of the Biltmore Hotel, holds deep historical significance. This Tbilisi landmark, which once housed sessions of the Georgian Parliament, is symbolic in the country's history.

It was here that the 1991 Act of Restoration of State Independence and the 1995 Constitution of Georgia were signed. The hall also has a special place in chess history, having hosted the finals of the 2017 FIDE World Cup between Levon Aronian and Ding Liren.

The Tbilisi celebration is one of many global events marking FIDE's 100th anniversary, reflecting the enduring legacy of chess and its continued relevance on the world stage.