The World Chess Federation (FIDE) and Government of Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Region–Yugra have reached an agreement in respect of the organization of the 2005 World Chess Cup in which leading GMs of the planet compete. 127 participants from 48 countries arrived in the capital of Yugra. Unfortunately, GM Vladimir Akopian of Armenia failed to come due to the health problems.

26 November 2005 the opening ceremony took place in the Yugra Classic concert and theatre center. At the ceremony Alexander Filipenko, Governor of the Autonomous Region–Yugra and Kirsan Ilyumzhinov, Head of the Republic of Kalmykia, FIDE President congratulated the participants and guests on the opening of the World Chess Cup.

The Chief Arbiter of the tournament Ashot Vardapetian held the ceremony of drawing of colors.

Afterwards Arts Centre for the Talented Children of the North: actors of the ob-yugrian peoples’ theatre, classic dance group and winners of the region sport dance contests gave their performance. The concert program was followed by the brass band. Conducted by bandmaster Viktor Khoudoley it performed quodlibet from the Franc Sinatra’s repertoire. The organizers wished to all the participants of the World Chess Cup victories, fulfillment of hopes, bright impressions and desire to visit Yugra again.

After the opening ceremony the Governor gave the reception for the participants, journalists and guests of the Cup in the restaurant “Atrium” of the wellness hotel “Yugra Valley”. The Organizers made a surprise for Kirsan Ilyumzhinov. On the occasion of his ten years FIDE Presidency he was presented with a big cake with chess pieces. 10 candles were blown out by the hero of the day at the audience applause.