Doha: The FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships 2025 will be held in Doha, Qatar, from December 26 to 30, bringing together a large field of elite competitors across both genders and formats.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the championships will take place at Qatar University and feature Swiss tournaments in Rapid and multi-stage competition in Blitz, with over £1,000,000 in prize money. This event marks Doha's return as the host after nine years and will conclude the international chess calendar for the year.

A highlight of the championship is the participation of reigning world champion Gukesh Dommaraju and world number one Magnus Carlsen, who are among the top grandmasters confirmed for the open events.

Azerbaijan will have a strong presence at the championship, represented by 14 players. Standout participants include Shahriyar Mammadyarov, Teymur Rajabov, and Eltaj Safarli, alongside female players such as Gunay Mammadzade and Gulnar Mammadova.

In total, over 400 male and female chess players will compete in this prestigious world championship event.