Viswanathan Anand to Inaugurate World Junior Chess Championship 2024 in Gujarat
World Junior Chess Championship 2024 to be Hosted in Gujarat, Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand to Inaugurate
The Gujarat State Chess Association (GSCA) is all set to host the prestigious World Junior Chess Championship 2024 at GIFT City Club, Gandhinagar, Gujarat. This marks the first time ever that Gujarat will be hosting the World Chess Championship, with representation from over 46 countries and 228 skilled players ready to battle it out for the title.
The event will be inaugurated by Padma Vibhushan Awardee and former five-time world chess champion Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand. Anand expressed his joy at India hosting the championship, stating, “It is a great honour to be part of the World Junior Chess Championship 2024. This event is a testament to the rising talent in the world of chess and India’s commitment to fostering this intellectual sport. I am thrilled to see such a diverse group of young players here and look forward to some exciting matches.”
The championship has attracted participants from 38 federations, with 13 Grandmasters, 28 International Masters, 2 Women Grandmasters, and 10 International Women Masters participating. The event is expected to inspire a new generation of chess players and contribute to the sport’s growing popularity worldwide.
Chief Arbiter Ashot Vardapetyan, who also served as Chief Arbiter for the 2013 World Chess Championship match between Vishwanathan Anand and Magnus Carlsen, will oversee the tournament, ensuring fair play. The event is set to showcase India’s reputation as a global chess hub and provide a platform for cultural exchange and camaraderie among participants from different nations.
GIFT City, known for its cutting-edge infrastructure and amenities, will provide the perfect backdrop for this prestigious international event. The Gujarat State Chess Association, dedicated to promoting and advancing the game of chess, plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of chess in India. The championship promises to be an exhilarating battle of intellect and strategy, with participants and visitors alike anticipating a meticulously organized tournament and opportunities to immerse themselves in the vibrant cultural heritage of Gujarat.