Turlov and Iashvili Meet to Chart the Future of Global Chess

Strategic Talks Between FIDE President and Georgian Chess Leader

FIDE President Timur Turlov recently held a meeting with Akaki Iashvili, President of the Georgian Chess Federation and FIDE President’s Representative for Special Projects, to review ongoing initiatives and plan future directions for the game worldwide.

2027–2028 Calendar and Competition Formats

A central focus of the discussion was the upcoming international chess calendar spanning 2027 to 2028, which includes World Championship events and other competitions overseen by the FIDE Events Commission. The two officials exchanged perspectives on potential enhancements to competition formats, organisational standards, and the overall experience for players, organisers, spectators, and media.

Several new ideas and initiatives are under consideration with the goal of elevating both the quality and appeal of FIDE-sanctioned events.

Review of Samarkand Events

The meeting also addressed the recent FIDE elections held in Uzbekistan and the World Chess Olympiad staged in Samarkand. Particular attention was given to sporting outcomes, organisational execution, and logistical matters related to the events.

Chess Development in Georgia

Projects and strategic plans of the Georgian Chess Federation featured prominently in the conversation.

• The reconstruction of the Tbilisi Chess Palace, a landmark venue in the capital, is underway and expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
• A chess-in-preschool-education project is already running in 15 kindergartens in the city of Poti and was described as a model with potential for adoption in other countries.

New Social Initiative: Chess for Miners

Discussions also explored a social initiative aimed at introducing chess to workers in the coal-mining industry. Among the proposals considered was the possibility of organising a World Chess Championship for Miners, with the city of Tkibuli—home to active coal mines—identified as a potential host.

The project aligns with a broader objective of expanding chess’s social reach and creating new opportunities for people across different professional and social backgrounds.

Global Expansion

Turlov and Iashvili also discussed ways to broaden the geographic footprint of international competitions, strengthen support for national federations, and deepen cooperation across continents. Particular emphasis was placed on regions where chess already has a solid foundation but significant untapped potential remains.

The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing to continue working closely together and develop practical proposals for new projects and improvements to FIDE competitions in the years ahead.

Source

This report is based on information published by FIDE — International Chess Federation.

Official source: https://www.fide.com/fide-president-timur-turlov-meets-akaki-iashvili-to-discuss-future-events-and-chess-development/