In a major development for the world of mind sports, the International Chess Federation has officially joined the International World Games Association during the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at the Olympic Museum in Lausanne.
This move increases IWGA’s total membership to 40 federations and broadens the scope of sports represented in the World Games movement.
What is FIDE?
The International Chess Federation, popularly known as FIDE (Fédération Internationale des Échecs), is the global governing body of chess.
It regulates:
- International chess tournaments
- Chess rankings and titles
- Rules and standards of the game
FIDE plays a major role in promoting chess globally.
About IWGA
- The International World Games Association (IWGA) is a global sports body recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), responsible for organizing The World Games every four years.
- As of April 2026, Anna Arzhanova has been elected as the new IWGA President, becoming the first woman to lead the organization.
Interesting Facts
- Chess is considered one of the most popular mind sports globally.
- Lausanne is known as the Olympic Capital.
- FIDE was founded in 1924.
Conclusion
The inclusion of the International Chess Federation in the International World Games Association marks an important milestone for the recognition of chess and mind sports worldwide. It further strengthens chess’s status as a truly global and competitive sport.