As 2024 draws to a close, we take this moment to reflect on an extraordinary year for MIND SPORTS and International Mind Sports Association (IMSA). This year has been nothing short of exceptional, filled with successes and milestones that will shape the future of Mind Sports.
From celebrating IMSA’s centenary across the globe to hosting the Candidates Tournament in Toronto, the 45th Olympiad and FIDE Congress in Budapest, and The SOG Grandmasters Series has showcased the power and global reach of mind sports. We continued with 16th World Bridge Games in Buenos Aires, improving the Women’s Grand Prix, launching it in an updated format. Also, we opened new avenues for mind sports, with linking up with IESF at the IESF World Esports Summit in Busan, South Korea.
Yet, our journey isn’t over. As we count down to the final hours of 2024, we look forward to the World Rapid and Blitz Championships in New York, a fitting finale to a great year!
For IMSA, this has been a year of celebration and progress. We have broadened mind sport’s reach across continents, from the Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya to Wall Street and beyond, engaging players and communities at every level. Through hard work and collaboration, we’ve organized world-class events, secured new sponsorships, and expanded opportunities for all who love mind sports. And we are continuing to work hard on doing more!
This year we also achieved a great feat by joining hands with World Poker Federation (WPF) as they became proud members of IMSA.
World Draughts Federation (FMJD) a proud member of IMSA organized World Title Match Draughts 2024 , they also Organized Draughts World Cup 2024.
The coming year, 2025, will see the launch of a new IMSA initiative – The Year of Social Mind Sports. Aimed at bringing mind sports to diverse communities around the world, this is a continuation of our mission to make mind sports accessible to everyone, at every level.
None of this would have been possible without the passion and dedication of the global mind sports family: federations, players, partners, sponsors, and the tireless IMSA team. Your commitment has been the driving force behind our shared success as we continue to build strong foundations for the development of mind sports.
I extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who has contributed to making 2024 a spectacular year for mind sports. As we welcome the new year, let us carry forward the energy which brings the world together through the universal language of mind sports!
Wishing you and your loved ones all the best for the holiday season and a wonderful 2025!
Nandan Jha
IMSA President