Celebrating Women’s Chess at the 2024/2025 Grand Prix
By Milan Dinic, FIDE’s Press Officer
The scenic town of Grosslobming, Austria, served as the backdrop for the opening ceremony of the final tournament in the 2024/2025 FIDE Women’s Grand Prix. The event was marked by traditional Austrian elements, including lively polka music, regional wines, and competitors donning local attire, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
In a unique setting near a historic castle, the tournament brought together chess talent and cultural appreciation, kicking off with performances by a brass band that accompanied traditional Styrian folk songs. The southern Austrian region of Styria, known for its picturesque vineyards and rich cultural heritage, set the stage perfectly for the occasion.
“This is a great event for Austria and for women’s chess, and we are delighted to be the hosts. This is the first major event we’re organising as we want to bring chess closer to the Austrian public and do more to promote the game,” said Michael Stöttinger, president of the Austrian Chess Federation.
Stöttinger emphasized the importance of this tournament, particularly its role in promoting women’s chess, stating:
“If you make an advertisement for women’s chess, it’s like making an advertisement for Coca-Cola Light. You always transport open chess [into it]. This was also one of the reasons why we asked to organise a women’s chess event, and I’m very grateful to FIDE for their trust.”
In her address, FIDE delegate Sava Stoisavljevic highlighted the organization’s commitment to increasing the visibility and support of women’s chess. She reflected on the Grand Prix series, noting, “As one of several women in senior positions within FIDE, I am pleased to see the organisation recognising the importance of women’s chess and offering greater support and visibility to women players. But – speaking also as a woman – I know there is still work to be done.”
The 2024/2025 Women’s Grand Prix has traveled extensively, from locations such as Georgia and Kazakhstan to Monaco, Cyprus, and India, showcasing the significant contributions of female players at all levels of the sport.
Taking place at a 19th-century manor close to the Red Bull Ring Formula One circuit, this final leg will determine the overall winner of the series and the top two qualifiers for the prestigious 2026 Women’s Candidates Tournament. The excitement builds as the first round is set to commence at 3 PM local time on May 6.
Visual Highlights
A vibrant scene from the opening ceremony | Photo: Przemysław Nikiel
Chess, culture, and celebration come together | Photo: Przemysław Nikiel
Event Significance
The presence of international talent and the organization’s efforts reflect a commitment to uplifting women in chess. The synergy of culture and competition at this event is a testament to the evolving landscape of chess, highlighting the growing recognition of women’s contributions within the sport.
