President of the Qatar Chess Federation Mohammed Al-Mudahka makes the ceremonial first move during the match at the Candidates Championship in Cyprus.
Doha, Qatar: The International Chess Federation (FIDE) praised Qatar’s successful hosting of the World Rapid and Blitz Championships during its meetings held in Cyprus alongside the Candidates Championship, which features eight male and eight female players competing for places in the World Championship finals.
President of the Qatar Chess Federation Mohammed Al-Mudahka attended the meetings in his capacity as FIDE Director of International Relations. Discussions focused on key issues concerning the future of chess and the upcoming international calendar.
The FIDE Council commended the high organisational standards of the championships hosted in Qatar last December.
Magnus Carlsen secured the title, ahead of Artemyev of Russia, while Neiman Hahn of the United States finished third. In the women’s event, Alexandra Goryachkina of Russia claimed the title.
FIDE also confirmed that Africa will host the 2032 Chess Olympiad for the first time, with the host nation to be decided later. The 2034 edition will take place in the Americas, which last staged the event in 1978 in Buenos Aires.
Earlier this year, FIDE appointed Al-Mudahka to oversee the next Olympiad, set for September 10–24 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
The appointment reflects recognition of his contribution to global chess development and Qatar’s successful hosting of major events.
Al-Mudahka praised FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich for efforts to expand the game and strengthen competitions worldwide. He noted that Asia remains a key focus area, with Uzbekistan’s hosting aligned with broader development plans. Qatar will take part in the Olympiad, aiming to gain valuable international exposure and raise competitive standards.
Al-Mudahka reaffirmed Qatar’s commitment to working with FIDE to grow the game locally and internationally.
