Chess Federation of Georgia


The Chess Federation of Georgia is the main governing body of chess in Georgia (country) and is affiliated with FIDE. It oversees the development, promotion, and organization of chess competitions in the country, and forms national teams for men and women.

History

The federation was established on December 19, 1936, when a chess club opened at Rustaveli Avenue No.48 in Tbilisi. This club served as the center of Georgian chess until 1973. The first chairman was Victor Goglidze, the first Georgian chess master. Under his guidance, a 1948 decree was adopted to promote chess in Georgia.
The development of Georgian chess was further supported by the construction of the Tbilisi Chess Palace in Vera Park. Project work began under Giorgi Jabua and was completed during Archil Chirakadze's leadership.
Throughout its history, the federation was headed by influential public figures, which facilitated organizing world championship matches, hosting international tournaments, publishing chess bulletins, and promoting chess through the media.
After Georgia regained independence in the 1990s, the federation strengthened its international presence. During Vazha Shubladze’s leadership, Georgia achieved notable results in Chess Olympiad and European Team Chess Championship. The Nona Gaprindashvili International Cup was established to award the country with the best combined result of men’s and women’s teams at the Olympiad.

Activities

The Chess Federation of Georgia coordinates chess development nationwide, including:National championships — Annual Georgian Chess Championship events for men, women, age categories, and veterans.International relations — Member of FIDE and European Chess Union, cooperating with international bodies to host tournaments.National team preparation — Formation of national men’s and women’s teams, organizing training camps, and participation in Chess Olympiad and world and European team events.Educational projects — Implementing the Chess in Schools program to integrate chess as an educational tool.

Major events

Georgia has hosted numerous international competitions:

Regional development

The federation coordinates regional chess organizations and clubs in cities such as Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi, Poti, Gori, Rustavi, and Zugdidi, focusing on identifying and supporting talented young players.