On October 5, the official Opening Ceremony of the Asian Grand Prix 2026 took place at Kohi Navruz, one of the most impressive venues in Tajikistan’s capital. More than 300 players from 30 countries have gathered in Dushanbe for seven days of competition and a guaranteed prize fund of $500,000.
👑 Chair of the IBF Organizing Committee Tatiana Komarova delivered a welcome address from the President of the International Backgammon Federation, Umar Kremlev:
“I am very happy to see so many strong players, backgammon enthusiasts, and simply wonderful people here from all around the world. Thank you to each and every one of you for coming and making this tournament truly international, vibrant, and, I am sure, unforgettable.
It is important to us that players come to our tournaments for more than just victories and prize money. Most importantly, we want everyone to feel that they are welcome here, that they are known here, and that they are among friends. And we want our family to keep growing.“
In his address, Umar Kremlev thanked the Government and the Ministry of Sports of the Republic of Tajikistan for supporting the tournament, as well as the organizers, referees, volunteers, technical specialists, and the entire team. He also spoke about the continued development of IBF, the launch of its own app this autumn, the first issue of IBF Journal, and the upcoming World Youth Backgammon Championship in 2027
🎙 The participants were also welcomed by:
• Rahmiddin Salam Salomzoda, Deputy Chairman of the City of Dushanbe
• Shabnam Karim Rahimzoda, First Deputy Chairman of the Committee for Youth and Sports under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan
• Abubakr Komilovich Mirzoaliev, President of the Backgammon Federation of the Republic of Tajikistan
💃 The Munir Dance Group brought the spirit of Tajik hospitality to the ceremony with a traditional performance
🌍 During the ceremony, all 30 countries participating in the Asian Grand Prix 2026 were presented. Players from Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Australia, and North America have come together in Dushanbe on one international stage
🇹🇯 The participants paid tribute to the host country as the national anthem of Tajikistan was played in the hall. Following the anthem, the Asian Grand Prix 2026 was officially declared open
👨⚖️ The ceremony concluded with remarks from the Chief Arbiter of the Asian Grand Prix 2026, Agamir Gevorkyan, who addressed the players before the competition began
The International Backgammon Federation congratulates all players on the official start of the Asian Grand Prix 2026! We wish everyone fair and exciting games, great victories, and an unforgettable week in Dushanbe 🎲