Excitement Builds as Australia Prepares for the 45th FIDE Chess Olympiad in Budapest

The 45th FIDE Chess Olympiad has kicked off in Budapest, with a record number of countries participating in the prestigious event. A total of 197 countries, 381 teams, and over 2,000 of the world’s best chess players have descended upon the Hungarian capital to compete for gold and glory for their respective nations.

Among the participants is the legendary Philippines captain GM Eugenio Torre, who has been a fixture at the Olympiads for half a century and has achieved mascot status among fans. With a mix of first-timers and seasoned veterans, the competition promises to be fierce as teams vie for the top honors.

Uzbekistan emerged victorious at the 2022 Olympiad, but this year, all eyes are on powerhouses like the USA, India, and China to challenge the defending champions for the title. In the women’s division, India stands out as a strong contender for the double crown, with a compact team boasting high average ratings.

However, the spotlight also falls on Australia, as the team prepares to make its mark on the international stage. Led by GM Temur Kuybokarov, the Australian Open team features a mix of experience and talent, with players like GM Bobby Cheng and IM Rishi Sardana eager to showcase their skills on the global stage.

In the women’s division, the Australian team, captained by IM Mihajlo Radovanovic, is set to make waves with a blend of experience and promising newcomers. With players like WGM Julia Ryjanova and WGM Jilin Zhang leading the charge, the team is poised to exceed expectations and make a strong showing at the Olympiad.

As the teams settle into the Grand Ensana Hotel on Margaret Island, fans can expect updates and insights from the Australian captain throughout the event. With record-breaking donations helping offset travel costs for the players, the Australian team is grateful for the support and ready to make their mark at the 45th FIDE Chess Olympiad in Budapest.