Hungarian Chess Federation signs contract to host 2024 Chess Olympiad

After the contract was signed, FIDE chairman Arkady Dvorkovich said Budapest’s application to host the contest drew its strength from Hungary’s chess tradition as well as the government’s contribution and support, singling out the efforts of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.

He said the 2024 Chess Olympiad would be an “extraordinary event” that would improve the image of chess and broaden its appeal.

MSSZ chairman Laszlo Szabo said the contest would be hosted at the Hungexpo fair grounds in the capital, adding that a decision on the exact dates had still not been taken.

National Sport Agency managing director Attila Mihok said MSSZ would handle the professional aspects of organising the Chess Olympiad while the agency works to ensure the necessary infrastructure and organise accommodations, assisting where necessary.

FIDE approved Budapest’s bid to host the 2024 Chess Olympiad in December. The contest, which Hungary has never before officially hosted, is expected to draw some 3,500 participants.

Judit Polgar, the greatest female chess player of all time, earlier said Hungary could compete with three male and three female teams at the 2024 Chess Olympiad.