In 2018, China achieved a rare double victory at the Batumi Chess Olympiad

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In 2018, China achieved a rare double victory at the Batumi Chess Olympiad
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In short: The 43rd Chess Olympiad in Georgia set records for participation, drawing 185 teams to the coastal city of Batumi. Amidst intense competition and strict anti-cheating protocols, China emerged as the dominant force, securing gold medals in both the Open and Women's tournaments—a feat not seen in over three decades.

Held from 23 September to 6 October 2018, the Batumi Chess Olympiad was a massive logistical undertaking. The event utilized the newly constructed Sport Palace Batumi for tournament rounds, while ceremonies were hosted at the Black Sea Arena and the Batumi State Music Centre. With 1,667 total participants, the tournament saw 185 teams in the Open section and 151 in the Women's section, both establishing new participation records. To maintain integrity, FIDE enforced rigorous anti-cheating measures, including mandatory security inspections and the prohibition of electronic devices like mobile phones and watches within the playing venue.

China’s performance was historic. By winning gold in both the Open and Women's events, they became the first nation since the Soviet Union in 1986 to unite the titles. The Open team, featuring players like Ding Liren, secured their second gold medal, while the Women's team claimed their sixth title overall. Individual brilliance was also on display; Peruvian player Jorge Cori achieved the highest performance rating of 2925 in the Open event, and Women's World Champion Ju Wenjun led the Women's field with a 2661 rating. China’s combined success also earned them the Nona Gaprindashvili Trophy.

Beyond the board, the event hosted the 89th FIDE Congress, which resulted in a significant leadership transition. Arkady Dvorkovich was elected FIDE President, defeating George Makropoulos after Nigel Short withdrew his candidacy. This election followed the resignation of long-serving president Kirsan Ilyumzhinov amid controversy over United States Treasury sanctions. The tournament, which cost over 20 million US dollars to organize, was supported by various sponsors and featured a unique mascot—a green turtle—to celebrate the occasion. Despite the competitive nature of the Swiss-system tournament, the event served as a major showcase for Georgia, which had successfully bid for the hosting rights in 2014.

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