In a seminal moment for the game, chess is set to be showcased among 23 sports at the 13th African Games, hosted by the Republic of Ghana from 8th to 23rd March 2024.

The event will be held in the capital city of Accra, celebrating the spirit of unity and excellence across the African continent.

“The inclusion of chess in this prestigious multi-sport event is a significant step in the international recognition of the game at big international sports competitions,” said FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich.

Chess made its debut in the African Games in 2003, and it featured in all subsequent editions till 2015. The decision to include chess in the 13th edition was accepted by the Minister of Youth & Sports of the Republic of Ghana, reflecting the status of the game globally.

“Upon my recent visit to Africa, I have seen great appetite for the game and interest from the public and the African government. To have chess included in one of the biggest sports events in Africa is wonderful. It reaffirms the place chess has as a sport in major sporting events and is a step closer to having chess present at the Olympic Games as the biggest global sports event,” said Grandmaster Nigel Short, FIDE’s Director for chess development.

The 13th African Games will witness the participation of 24 countries in the chess tournament, with each country entitled to enter a team consisting of two chess players, comprising one man, one woman, and one captain.

The formats will include the Mixed Team Rapid Championship, Men’s Rapid Championship, Women’s Rapid Championship, Mixed Team Blitz Championship, Men’s Blitz Championship, and Women’s Blitz Championship.

The inclusion of chess in the African Games follows the success of reintroducing chess to the Asian Games, where competitions were held in individual and team tournaments in both the open and the women’s categories.

The overarching goal of the 13th African Games is to foster positive rivalry among the youth of Africa, projecting a united Africa to the world. Beyond the sporting arena, the event aims to promote Africa’s rich art and culture, contributing to socio-economic development across the continent.

Official sponsor:

Riyadh Season

Riyadh Season is an official partner of FIDE at the 13th African Games in Accra.

Riyadh Season is one of the world’s largest annual winter entertainment festivals located in Saudi Arabia, it welcomes millions of visitors every year who get to experience a variety of exciting surprises, events, and music concerts. Additionally, it hosts international activities and events that draw in world-renowned stars in sports such as boxing, tennis, and football. The festivities capture the essence of Saudi heritage and hospitality and it showcases its present-day vibranism.

For more information about Riyadh season, visit: riyadhseason.com