2016 Chess Olympiad (Baku, Azerbaijan)

Chess players, fans and friends!

The 42nd Chess Olympiad is bubbling with excitement as players are being treated to a seaside paradise in the capitol of Azerbaijan, Baku. A record-shattering event is on tap and most of the sport’s top brass will be competing while others will be carrying out the business of FIDE, the world’s chess body. While not an election year, there are issues hanging over the collective heads of the 185-member body. It is unclear what role FIDE President Kirsan Ilyumzhinov will play in the proceedings, but certainly there is an agenda and it will be executed.

This Olympiad has a chance to be special since it has the advantage of having a supportive chess culture. In fact, Azerbaijan is a Muslim nation with a rich history and varied landscape. It should make for an interesting experience for the attendees at the two-week festival. Reports are that the entire city is festooned with Olympiad paraphernalia and chess motifs throughout. There seems to be quite a spirit of hospitality which will put visitors in a great mood.

The Chess Drum has covered five Olympiads, but will be covering the action off-location. Nevertheless, we hope to bring you up-to-date reports, social media, and a collection of photos from some of the world’s best. We hope to conduct some live interviews as well.

Enjoy the festivities. GENS UNA SUMUS!

~ Dr. Daaim Shabazz, The Chess Drum
Follow @thechessdrum