Last Tuesday, November 5, the CaixaForum auditorium in Barcelona hosted a gala celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Catalan Chess Federation, an event that also marked the centenary of FIDE (International Chess Federation), which was a special guest at the celebration.

Approximately 300 attendees gathered at sunset for the dynamic event, which featured tributes, recognitions of various entities, and musical performances. The gala, hosted by presenter Danae Boronat, began with performances by Juga di Prima, a Chilean singer residing in Catalonia who merges her passion for chess with contemporary music.

Distinguished guests recognized by both FIDE and the Catalan Chess Federation included Gerard Esteva, president of the Union of Sports Federations of Catalonia (UFEC), who paid tribute to the Federation's 100 years; FIDE Deputy Chair Dana Reizniece-Ozola; FIDE Executive Director Victor Bologan; and Cristóbal Ramon Frontiñán, acting president of the Spanish Chess Federation, who received a standing ovation for delivering his speech in Catalan despite not being fluent. Jesús Naharro, Deputy of the Sports and Physical Activity Area, also offered words of recognition.

The occasion was perfect for unveiling the Federation’s new corporate image, designed to be more functional, modern, versatile, and adaptable, setting the tone for the future. The event also showcased several productions created for the 2025 celebration, including a commemorative chessboard limited to 100 units, a centennial book, a sticker album for the 2024-2025 teams, and the evening’s highlight: the world premiere of the Centennial Song.

The celebration continued at Luz de Gas, where chess games illuminated by cellphone lights extended the festivities into the night.

The centennial season promises to be filled with proposals and activities, culminating on August 2 with the Centennial Celebration Party. Leading up to this, there will be exhibitions, challenges for all ages, street tournaments, surprises, and plenty of chess.