FIDE's Bid Wars: The Battle to Host the World Chess Championship 2024

With millions at stake and the prestige of organizing the pinnacle event in chess, contenders are lining up, stirring up a storm of speculation and excitement.

The chess community is no stranger to high stakes, but as FIDE throws down the gauntlet for potential hosts of the 2024 World Chess Championship, the intensity reaches a new level. With a minimum budget requirement of $8.5 million, cities worldwide are sizing up their chances to secure the bid and put themselves on the map as the epicenter of the chess universe.

• Minimum total budget: $8,500,000
• Minimum total prize fund: $2,500,000
• FIDE fee: $1,100,000

The reigning champion, GM Ding Liren, awaits his challenger, GM Gukesh Dommaraju, in what promises to be a showdown for the ages.

But beyond the board, another battle is brewing—one of diplomacy, finance, and prestige.

FIDE's call for bids has sparked a flurry of reactions, with voices from all corners of the chess world chiming in. From seasoned grandmasters to avid fans, everyone has an opinion on where the championship should take place and how the funds should be allocated.

IM Levy 'GothamChess' Rozman took to social media to express his views, advocating for greater media coverage and sponsorship deals to elevate the profile of the event. Meanwhile, GM Peter Heine Nielsen raised eyebrows with his criticism of FIDE's financial motives, suggesting that the championship has become more about profit than prestige.

In response, FIDE CEO GM Emil Sutovsky defended the organization's position, emphasizing the need to generate revenue to support chess development initiatives and ensure the sustainability of the sport. He highlighted the importance of hosting top-tier events like the World Championship in driving interest and investment in chess on a global scale.

As the deadline for bids looms, speculation is rife about which city will emerge victorious in the bid wars. Will it be the bustling streets of Mumbai, the vibrant culture of Buenos Aires, or the sleek skyline of Singapore? Each contender brings its own unique charm and selling points, promising an unforgettable experience for players and spectators alike.

With FIDE's call for bids for the 2024 World Chess Championship, the chess world is embroiled in a battle for hosting rights. As cities around the globe vie for the opportunity to showcase their chess prowess, debates rage on about the allocation of funds and the future direction of the sport. With tensions running high and the stakes higher than ever, the race to host the championship promises to be a spectacle worthy of the grandest of chess battles.

PK