Makoto set for Chess World Cup

Curtworth Masango
International Master Rodwell Makoto is set to participate in the Chess World Cup to be held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from Saturday to August 24.
This year’s FIDE World Cup is Makoto’s second World Cup appearance in a row and follow his participation at the 2021 edition in Sochi, Russia, where he was defeated by Grandmaster Vladislav Kovalev.

Zimbabwe Chess Federation Muchakanakirwa Mkanganwi said they are firmly behind Makoto as he is rising the country’s flag high.

“Makoto is not simply a participant, he is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring young chess players in Zimbabwe and across Africa.

“He consistently exemplifies what it means to represent our nation with pride and dignity. We stand firmly behind him as the Federation and cheer him on.

“ZCF remains confident in Makoto’s skills, exceptional resilience, and unyielding will to win.

“With precise calculation and strategic brilliance, he aims to outmanoeuvre his renowned opponent and etch his name in the annals of chess history.

“Makoto’s participation symbolizes the rise of Zimbabwean chess on the global stage since the country is one of the top African performers at the 44th World Chess Olympiad held in Chennai, India in 2022.

“We thank FIDE for continuing to notice Zimbabwe’s efforts in growing and developing chess signaled by the FIDE Delegation’s visit to Zimbabwe.

“With more support from FIDE and more corporate partners in chess, the future of our sport is bright.

“Obviously, when Zimbabwe is represented in such a prestigious world chess stage, it’s a big win for us and gives great impetus to what we are doing as a Federation,” he said.