Historic Chess in Singapore
Precision under pressure
KIN was the Event Delivery Partner for the historic FIDE World Chess Championship Singapore 2024. Held at the Equarius Hotel ballroom in Resorts World Sentosa, the event saw reigning World Champion Ding Liren of China face challenger Dommaraju Gukesh of India — marking the first championship in 138 years to feature two contestants from Asia.
Our role spanned comprehensive management of logistics, operations, and ensuring an undistracted, fair environment for the players. Accompanying the landmark presence of global technology sponsor Google and a prize fund of US$2.5 million, the responsibility bestowed upon KIN was immense — particularly given the tight 36-hour window available to set up the venue.
A team of 50 dedicated personnel worked tirelessly around the clock to bring the championship to life within the 36-hour setup window. They embodied KIN’s commitment to professionalism, working across multiple specialties under extreme time pressures.
As the event management company overseeing daily venue operations, KIN handled crowd management and patron experience throughout the championship. Maintaining a high standard of player safety and facilitating requirements from both the Local Organising Committee and FIDE was paramount. Daily side programmes and the grand closing ceremony were executed flawlessly, each element contributing to a memorable championship atmosphere.
KIN managed the dressing and build-up of venue branding and the setting up of the Commentary Studio, ensuring the venue reflected the prestige of the FIDE World Chess Championship — with branding elements that enhanced the visual experience for both on-site spectators and global viewers.
To ensure an optimal level of concentration and fairness, the Field-of-Play wall and ceiling were built to a rating of STC40. While any sound over 70dB could still be heard within the room, it would not be understandable — minimising distractions. Spectators were also informed of the no-loud-noises rule, ensuring a respectful atmosphere for the players.
A one-way mirror glass was installed as a key feature of the Field of Play. This 13mm thick glass — consisting of a 5mm clear tempered layer, a 6mm one-way mirror, and a plastic film laminate — was designed to absorb sound waves effectively. This allowed spectators to watch the game without disturbing the players, maintaining an undisturbed environment for strategic thought.
