Team MGD1 Creates History, Becomes First Indian Team to Win FIDE World Rapid Title

In a historic achievement, Team MGD1 became the first Indian team to win the FIDE World Rapid Team Championship. Led by the stellar performances of Grandmasters Arjun Erigaisi and Pranav, the team clinched the title after a thrilling final day. Seeded sixth, Team MGD1 emerged victorious with 10 wins in 12 rounds over three days, finishing with 21 points, just one point ahead of the second-placed Team Hexamind. The team started strongly, winning all their matches on the first day. However, a draw against Team Freedom and a loss to Team Hexamind on the second day put pressure on them. But they bounced back in style, winning all four rounds on the final day to secure the championship. Key victories by Arjun and Pranav against Malcolm’s Mates proved decisive. Arjun, the world number three, was the star of the final day, scoring 3.5 points out of 4. He defeated GM Richard Rapport of KazChess and fought back to draw against GM Nihal Sarin. He also comfortably beat GMs Jose Martinez and Luke McShane in the last two rounds. Pranav also had a perfect final day, winning all four of his games, including a victory over GM Ivan Saric. Atharva Tayade, playing on the recreational board, was another standout performer, winning 11 out of 12 games. His performance helped the team salvage a 3:3 draw against Team Freedom after Arjun's loss to Viswanathan Anand. 'This is very special! With the Indian team in the Olympiad, we were favourites, but here with Team MGD1, we were underdogs. Yet, we won gold again,' said Captain Srinath Narayanan. The team's victory highlights the strong team spirit and individual brilliance that contributed to their success. The teams will now compete in the Blitz competition.