All India Chess Federation aims to host World Chess Championship matches, says Verma

The All India Chess Federation (AICF) will bid to host the upcoming World Championship matches in India, said Head of Operations A.K. Verma on Sunday (April 19, 2026), expressing confidence now that two Indians are set to contest — reigning champion D. Gukesh in the open section and challenger R. Vaishali in the women’s section.

“Of course, we will try to bring it to India. We will be doing the bidding. We are very happy and proud that two Indians, in both categories, are going to fight for the World Championships. Chess is booming in India, and we are lucky that both Gukesh and Vaishali will be playing. It really is amazing and gives immense pleasure to all chess players, chess lovers, and all Indians,” he said before receiving Vaishali at the Chennai airport.