Abu Dhabi Confirmed As Host City For The 2028 Chess Olympiad

Abu Dhabi has been officially announced as the host city for the 47th Chess Olympiad in 2028, marking a significant milestone in the city's sporting calendar. This decision came after Abu Dhabi triumphed in an electronic vote last December, securing 96 votes against the 60 votes for Genoa, Italy. The prestigious event will not only spotlight the city on the international chess stage but will also include the 4th FIDE Olympiad for People of Determination and the 98th FIDE Congress.

The contract sealing this decision was signed at the Abu Dhabi Cycling Club premises on Al Hudayriat Island. The signatories were Aref Hamad Al Awani, Secretary-General of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and Arkady Dvorkovich, President of the International Chess Federation. This partnership underscores Abu Dhabi's growing reputation as a hub for major international sporting events.

Sheikh Sultan bin Khalifa bin Shakhbout Al Nahyan, a prominent figure in the chess community as President of both the Asian Chess Federation and the Al Ain Chess and Mind Games Club, expressed his gratitude towards the leadership for their unwavering support of sports and athletes. He anticipates that the Chess Olympiad will garner significant attention and leverage Abu Dhabi's extensive experience in hosting global events.

The anticipation around the Olympiad is high, with expectations of fierce competition among participants. Sheikh Sultan is confident in the UAE national team's ability to secure advanced positions in the tournament. Al Awani highlighted Abu Dhabi's readiness to host such a grand event, citing the city's robust infrastructure and the active role played by local chess clubs and federations in promoting chess across all levels.

Arkady Dvorkovich reflected on the UAE's evolution since hosting a similar event in Dubai in 1986. He praised the country's development and modern amenities, expressing confidence that Abu Dhabi will offer an exceptional experience for participants in 2028. The tournament is expected to draw participation from 200 male federations, 160 female federations, and 80 federations for People of Determination, with each team comprising four main players and a reserve.

The announcement was made in the presence of several officials, highlighting the importance of this event to Abu Dhabi and the broader chess community. This upcoming Olympiad promises to be a landmark event, showcasing not only the intellectual sport of chess but also Abu Dhabi's capacity to host events of such scale and significance.

With inputs from WAM