2024 FIDE World Championship Begins With Gukesh Drawing White Against Ding Liren

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The 2024 FIDE World Championship between Ding Liren and Gukesh D commenced with an elaborate opening ceremony in Singapore. The Capitol Theatre, a cultural landmark, hosted over 400 guests for this event.

Attendees enjoyed musical performances, speeches, and the drawing of colours for the first game. In a unique technological display, Gukesh D was assigned the white pieces for the initial match of the fourteen-game series.

Current World Champion Ding Liren from China and challenger Gukesh D from India will compete in a classical chess match consisting of fourteen games. The player who first scores 7.5 points will claim victory and receive the majority of the $2.5 million prize fund. The first game is scheduled for Monday, November 25 at 5 pm, with Gukesh starting with White.

Mr Teo Chee Hean, Senior Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security, emphasised the championship's importance to Singapore. "This year's World Championship has spread special significance for our part of the world. It is the first ever between two Grandmasters from Asia. Singapore is proud to play host for this historic match," he stated.

FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich expressed gratitude to the media for their coverage and highlighted various side events surrounding the championship. He noted that special attention was given to young chess enthusiasts: "The match itself is the most important thing, but today we already had dozens of kids coming to the playing venue. I would like to thank both players for sharing their time with the kids: they will remember this moment for the rest of their lives, and maybe some of them will compete at the highest possible level at some point."

Dr Hsu Li Yang, President of the Singapore Chess Federation and an International Master, expressed hope that this event would inspire future chess players in Singapore. "My federation and I hope that this match will serve as a powerful catalyst for our thriving chess community, inspiring the next generation of chess players in our country and around the world," he remarked.

The match represents a historic clash between two Asian Grandmasters: Gukesh D from India challenges reigning champion Ding Liren from China. Millions worldwide are expected to watch this monumental encounter unfold as it shapes both current and future chess history.

The championship will be held at Resorts World Sentosa and broadcast live on FIDE's YouTube Channel with expert commentary. This event not only highlights top-level competition but also aims to inspire young players globally by showcasing excellence in chess.