On the 2nd of March, 2013 Duman Hotel of Astana hosted the press-conference devoted to the start of the WWTC.
“For the third time Kazakhstan together with FIDE organize a tournament of such a high level. I sincerely thank the organizers of this tournament – Chess Federation of the Republic of Kazakhstan, FIDE and personally its President Kirsan Ilyumzhinov”.
Kirsan Ilyumzhinov, FIDE President: “I would like to congratulate Astana on this wonderful event. I am very glad that another World Championship is being held here in Kazakhstan.”
During the press-conference it was announced that Kazakhstan has another ambitious plan – to host the World Chess Olympiad in 2018.
Anna Ushenina, acting world champion, spoke about the expectations of Ukrainian team:
“Every team wants to win first place in Astana. Our team – is not an exception. I will try to show the best result. In such tournaments there are no weak opponents.”
Pictures of the press-conference
Ukraine will win.
A year ago today, Susan, my two daughters played in your simul in Norfolk — on my youngest daughter’s 10th birthday. “Best birthday EVER!!” she said.
Thank you, Susan. Perhaps one day my daughters will be in this tournament, and you and your sisters will have been an inspiration to them to get there.
One year ago today, Susan, my daughters played you in a simul in Norfolk — my my youngest daughter’s 10th birthday. “Best birthday EVER, Dad!!”
Thank you, Susan. Who knows? One day my daughters might be in this tournament, and it will be partly due to the inspiration you give them.
Both China and Russia are without their best players. Ukraine will probably win.
And the USA may have good chances.