Sport24.az
"For several years now, Azerbaijan has been the focus of attention for world chess viewers. I am very pleased that this year's tournament is being held in Karabakh. The Vugar Gashimov Memorial tournament is being held in the Karabakh region for the second year. I express my deep gratitude to President Ilham Aliyev for the wonderful conditions created. This tournament is held in accordance with world chess standards. I wish success to all participants of the competition."
A Sport24.az correspondent dispatched to Khankendi reports that these words were spoken by the president of the Azerbaijan Chess Federation, Mahir Mammadov, after the opening ceremony of the Vugar Gashimov Memorial 2025 tournament.
He also answered journalists' questions.
- Can you provide information about the tournament's prize fund?
- It would be better if you contact the Vugar Gashimov Memorial Fund about this.
- What is the reason for Shahriyar Mammadyarov's non-participation in this year's tournament?
- There are promises he made, clauses he signed in the contract. I guess that's the reason.
- You have been a member of the AFFA Executive Committee for many years. As the best team of the year, would you choose the "Qarabagh" club or our women's national team, which is the world runner-up?
- I would share the first and second places (laughs).
