Now, it is official. Chennai will host the 44th Chess Olympiad, the biggest congregation of players in the game, in July-August this year. Since February 25, when India pitched in with a bid to hold the biennial spectacle following the decision of the World Chess Federation (FIDE) to move the Olympiad from Russia after it launched a war against Ukraine, there was guarded optimism within the Indian chess circles. Now there is a sense of euphoria.
The Tamil Nadu Government, which offered a guarantee of ₹75 crore to the FIDE as part of the AICF’s bid, has geared up to make the event a mega success.
Minutes after FIDE announced its decision, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin tweeted, “Delighted that the Chess Capital of India is set to host the 44th Chess Olympiad! A proud moment for Tamil Nadu! Chennai warmly welcomes all the Kings and Queens from around the world!”
