Singapore to Host World Chess Championship Between Ding Liren and D Gukesh: An Exclusive Interview with Grandmaster Kevin Goh Wei Ming

Singapore to Host World Chess Championship Between Ding Liren and D Gukesh

In a surprising turn of events, Singapore has won the bid to host the World Chess Championship between reigning world champion Ding Liren and rising star D Gukesh later this year. The decision came after Singapore Chess Federation CEO, Grandmaster Kevin Goh Wei Ming, played a key role in securing the opportunity, beating out competition from New Delhi and Chennai.

In an exclusive interview, Kevin Goh shared insights into how the bid unfolded and the significance of hosting such a prestigious event in Singapore. He revealed that the idea to host the championship came to him after watching the final round of the Candidates tournament, where Gukesh secured his first GM norm. With the support of the government and private sponsors, Singapore was able to clinch the bid and make history by hosting the World Championship in South East Asia for the first time since 1978.

Goh also shed light on his relationship with both Ding Liren and Gukesh, highlighting a humorous encounter with Ding during a football game and his role in Gukesh’s journey to becoming a Grandmaster. He expressed his hopes for a competitive and engaging match between the two players, emphasizing the potential for the event to boost interest in chess in Singapore.

With plans to make the championship an immersive fan experience, Goh hinted at innovative ideas to enhance the spectator experience and draw in a diverse audience. He also welcomed Indian chess fans to attend the event, anticipating a significant turnout from neighboring countries.

As the game of chess continues to gain popularity in Singapore, Goh emphasized the importance of nurturing young talent and providing opportunities for players to excel. With a growing interest in the game and a supportive community, Singapore is poised to become a hub for chess enthusiasts and players alike.

The World Chess Championship in Singapore promises to be a landmark event for the country, showcasing the strategic brilliance and competitive spirit of two of the world’s top chess players. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development in the world of chess.