The Salesforce FIDE World Championship Match 2026, taking place in Geneva from 22 November to 12 December, is the most important chess event of the year. Reigning World Champion Gukesh Dommaraju and challenger Javokhir Sindarov will battle for the crown and the title of World Champion.
But this three-week event is about more than the very pinnacle of professional chess. It is also a celebration of the game itself, bringing together players, fans, and future champions. Every recent World Championship has featured a rich programme of side events, and Geneva will be no exception.
If you’re coming to Geneva to follow the match, be sure to reserve your place at one of the many activities on offer. The Salesforce FIDE World Championship match is a magnet for grandmasters, and several elite players, including former world champions, will be meeting and interacting with spectators throughout the event. After all, where else can you play against the great Viswanathan Anand or meet one of the biggest inspirations in women’s chess, Alexandra Kosteniuk?
The programme begins on 24 November, when Anand shares memories and insights from his own World Championship journeys. You may already know some of the stories from his bestselling memoir Master Mind, but this is a chance to hear first-hand from one of the legends of the game.
Swiss stars Alexandra Kosteniuk, the 12th Women’s World Champion, and Grandmaster Yannick Pelletier will lead a variety of activities throughout the event. Highlights include Pelletier’s fan blitz session during Game 3 and Kosteniuk’s audience challenge during Game 1.
During Game 4, Grandmaster Anna Muzychuk, one of the few women ever to surpass the 2600 rating mark, will team up with fan favourite Anish Giri for a tandem simultaneous exhibition. Both will also take part in additional events and activities on other days during the championship.
Be sure to bookmark the side events calendar so you don’t miss any new additions. Many activities require advance registration, so secure your place early before the spots are gone!
You can find all the information and registration details at: https://tickets.fide.com/en/events
