FIDE World Cup 2025: Wildcards Promise Thrills on Indian Soil

With the highly anticipated 2025 FIDE World Cup—set to take the stage on Indian soil—approaching, FIDE has started handing out the wildcards. The FIDE President holds the power to nominate 6 players, 5 of which have been announced. American prodigies Abhimanyu Mishra and Andy Woodward are amongst the set of players who have been nominated by President Dvorkovich to showcase their mettle in Goa.

Both Mishra and Andy managed exceptional results at the FIDE Grand Swiss earlier this month, both having scored 7/11 and collecting 30+ Elo points at the tender ages of 15 and 16, respectively. In addition to the Americans, IM Faustino Oro, who is in chase of his GM title at the moment, has been given a wildcard as well. A strong outing in Goa may significantly aid the “Messi of chess” in becoming the youngest ever Grandmaster.

The 19-year-old reigning World Rapid Champion Volodar Murzin also received a wildcard, and the youngster will be looking for his breakthrough in the classical format by making use of such an opportunity. The World Cup’s exciting knockout format invites a fair chance for the players via its 2-game match system. As the chess world turns its eyes to Goa for the 2025 FIDE World Cup, these young wildcard talents are poised to seize the spotlight, promising a thrilling games of chess.

Photo courtesy: Michal Walusza / FIDE