IMSA Invites Bids for World Mind Games: Aiming to Elevate Chess and Mind Sports in India
New Delhi Set to Host World Mind Games: Bids Invited Globally
New Delhi – The International Mind Sports Association (IMSA) has officially opened the bidding process for the next edition of the World Mind Games, slated to take place later this year or in early 2027. This announcement comes on the heels of a remarkable surge in the popularity of mind sports, particularly chess, in India.
Chess, the crown jewel of mind sports, has seen a renaissance in India, thanks to the stellar performances of players like Viswanathan Anand, Arjun Erigaisi, R Praggnanandhaa, and D Gukesh. Their achievements have not only elevated the game’s status but have also attracted significant corporate interest.
Sandeep Singh, IMSA’s Chief Marketing Officer, emphasized the importance of partnerships in promoting chess and other mind sports. “We are looking for collaboration, especially in chess and other mind sports,” he stated. “The market here is huge, with around $300 million already invested in e-sports. Our young talents are doing wonders, and we aim to make chess the most popular sport in India.”
Singh, a former chess player turned entrepreneur, is optimistic about expanding the reach of mind sports, including Poker, Go, Draught, Bridge, and E-sports. “Chess is played by over 50 million people in India alone, and we are committed to making it accessible to 500 million Indians in the coming years,” he added.
Geoffery Borg, CEO of IMSA, highlighted the strategic advantage of having Arkady Dvorkovich, the FIDE president, on board as IMSA president. Dvorkovich’s experience, particularly his role in organizing the FIFA World Cup in Russia, is expected to bolster IMSA’s initiatives.
With the World Mind Games on the horizon, the stage is set for India to showcase its prowess in mind sports on a global platform. As bids pour in from around the world, the anticipation builds for what promises to be a landmark event in the realm of intellectual competition.