Samarkand Hosts Record-Breaking FIDE Chess Olympiad: 400 Teams From Around the World

Quick summary

Samarkand will host the 46th FIDE Chess Olympiad from 16 to 27 September with a record number of participants — 400 national teams (208 in the open tournament, 192 in the women's tournament). This will exceed the previous record set in Budapest 2024 (380 teams).

Why it matters

For travelers to Uzbekistan, this means increased congestion of air transport and Samarkand hotels in September, as well as special routes of the Afrosiyob high-speed train for delegations. Tourists and business travelers should account for possible price increases and limited availability of services during the tournament period.

Key takeaways

• ›The 46th FIDE Chess Olympiad in Samarkand (Sept. 16–27) is the largest ever, with a record 400 national teams.
• ›The previous record of 380 teams was set at Budapest 2024; Samarkand adds 208 open-section and 192 women's-section teams.
• ›India competes as defending champion; Uzbekistan faces heightened home expectations as the host nation.