As 2024 draws to a close, we take this moment to reflect on an extraordinary year for chess and FIDE. This year has been nothing short of exceptional, filled with successes and milestones that will shape the future of our sport.

From celebrating FIDE’s centenary across the globe to hosting the Candidates Tournament in Toronto, the 45th Olympiad and FIDE Congress in Budapest, and the World Championship match in Singapore, 2024 has showcased the power and global reach of chess. We continued with improving the Women’s Grand Prix, launching it in an updated format. Also, we opened new avenues for chess, with the World Corporate Championship finals in New York and the second season of the Global Chess League in London. And, even, FIDE set a Guinness World Record for the most chess games played in 24 hours, with an astonishing 7,284,970 games!

This year will also be remembered as the year of Indian chess. With historic victories in both the Open and Women’s Olympiads and Gukesh D’s triumph as the youngest World Champion, India has taken its rightful place at the chess Acropolis.

Yet, our journey isn’t over. As we count down to the final hours of 2024, we look forward to the World Rapid and Blitz Championships in New York, a fitting finale to a great year!

For FIDE, this has been a year of celebration and progress. We have broadened chess’s reach across continents, from the Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya to Wall Street and beyond, engaging players and communities at every level. Through hard work and collaboration, we’ve organized world-class events, secured new sponsorships, and expanded opportunities for all who love the game. And we are continuing to work hard on doing more!

The coming year, 2025, will see the launch of a new FIDE initiative – The Year of Social Chess. Aimed at bringing chess to diverse communities around the world, this is a continuation of our mission to make chess accessible to everyone, at every level.

None of this would have been possible without the passion and dedication of the global chess family: federations, players, partners, sponsors, and the tireless FIDE team. Your commitment has been the driving force behind our shared success as we continue to build strong foundations for the development of chess.

I extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who has contributed to making 2024 a spectacular year for chess. As we welcome the new year, let us carry forward the energy which brings the world together through the universal language of chess!

Wishing you and your loved ones all the best for the holiday season and a wonderful 2025!

Arkady Dvorkovich, FIDE President