FIDE and SCF have put together an exclusive program for visitors of the FIDE World Championship Match presented by Google, featuring former world champions and contenders, renowned Grandmasters, AI experts, VIP simuls, and commentary.
The forthcoming FIDE World Championship match in Singapore promises not only a spectacular duel between two elite players but also an unforgettable chess festival. Visitors can look forward to exhibitions, presentations, and simultaneous matches that offer unique opportunities to meet and play with top Grandmasters and AI experts.
Special guest appearances and expert commentary: Special events kick off on November 24 – one day before round one in the Match – with the first round of the National Age Group Championships, where the former Women’s World Champion, Xie Jun, will be the guest of honor. Xie Jun will later be joined by U.S. Grandmaster and renowned chess commentator Maurice Ashley, and the two will provide commentary on the first match game both in-studio and in the fan zone, allowing fans to gain insights and ask questions in person.
Photo: Saint Louis Chess Club | Lennart Ootes
AI and chess: On November 26, Google DeepMind scientist Nenad Tomašev will deliver an exclusive presentation on the development and impact of AlphaZero, an AI program that has mastered complex games like chess. This session will shed light on the intersection of technology and chess, offering unique perspectives for enthusiasts.
Simuls with chess legends: During the event, several top-world Grandmasters and former world champions and contenders will appear in Singapore as special guests. Former World Champion Challenger and celebrated Grandmaster Boris Gelfand will join live commentary on November 26 and interact with visitors in the fan zone.
Photo: Stev Bonhage
Gelfand, along with former Women’s World Champion Alexandra Kosteniuk, will also hold simultaneous exhibition matches, giving fans a chance to play against chess icons.
Visitors will also have the rare opportunity to meet former World Champion Viswanathan Anand, who will offer expert match commentary and engage with attendees in the fan zone.
Photo: Michal Walusza
One of the most popular chess streamers WGM Nemo Zhou (akaNemsko) will also be in fan zone to interact with chess fans. Additionally, top Grandmasters such as England’s David Howell and Jovanka Houska will lead masterclasses for chess enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Photo: ChessBase India
Lessons from the first Asian GM: On November 30, visitors of the Match will have an opportunity to see in person and talk to one of the greatest living chess legends, Grandmaster Eugene Torre – the first Asian GM who took part in a record 23 Chess Olympiads and defeating many of the 20th century greatest players.
Photo: Saint Louis Chess Club | Bryan Adams
Singapore International Open: For those more interested in competitive events, the Singapore Chess Federation is throwing the Singapore International Open 2024. Featuring global chess talent, the event will take place at the Resorts World Sentosa Convention Centre alongside the FIDE World Championship. The tournament comprises two categories: Group A for players rated 1800 and above, utilizing accelerated pairings to enhance title norm opportunities, and Group B for players rated up to 1900, following standard Swiss pairings.
Plan your visit
More information about the match and side events can be found on the official website: worldchampionship.fide.com.
Tickets for the match and side events are available here.
For an all-inclusive experience, check out the specialized travel packages here.