The prestigious Silk Road Samarkand tourist center has become the focal point for the world chess elite as the 2023 World Rapid and Blitz Championship officially kicked off, reported UzDaily.
Representatives of the chess world have gathered in Samarkand, where the Silk Road Samarkand Congress Center hosted the grand opening ceremony of the much-anticipated World Rapid and Blitz Championship, scheduled from December 26 to 30.
The tournament boasts a stellar lineup of renowned players, featuring both current and former champions. Among the participants are the reigning world champion in rapid and blitz, Magnus Carlsen, former contenders for the world championship, top-ranked players Ian Nepomniachtchi and Fabiano Caruana, Levon Aronian, and many others. The women’s section includes current world champion Ju Wenjun, former world champions Alexandra Kosteniuk, Maria Muzychuk, Tan Zhongyi, Antoaneta Stefanova, and other formidable competitors.
With a total prize fund of one million US dollars – $700,000 for the open tournament and $300,000 for the women’s tournament – this championship ranks among the most significant events in the chess world.
The action kicks off with the rapid championship, spanning three days from December 26 to 28, followed by the two-day world blitz tournament on December 29 and 30. The championship promises thrilling moments and fierce competition, offering spectators and enthusiasts an opportunity to witness top-notch chess played by the world’s best grandmasters.
