FIDE congratulates Azerbaijan’s chess icon on Guinness world record recognition

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has extended official congratulations to Faig Hasanov, Vice-President of the Azerbaijan Chess Federation, following the inclusion of his name in the Guinness Book of Records.

FIDE shared the congratulatory message via its official social media platforms, hailing Hasanov’s recognition as an "extraordinary achievement" in the world of chess, Caliber.Az reports.

👏👏👏 Congratulations to Faig Gasanov on his extraordinary achievement!

On April 13, 2025, Faig Gasanov entered Guinness World Records as the chess arbiter with the longest career in the history of the sport, spanning an impressive 60 years and 149 days. A representative from… pic.twitter.com/dlD9DkoXmE

— International Chess Federation (@FIDE_chess) April 15, 2025

“Congratulations to Faig Hasanov on his extraordinary achievement!

On April 13, 2025, Faig Hasanov entered Guinness World Records as the chess arbiter with the longest career in the history of the sport, spanning an impressive 60 years and 149 days. A representative from Guinness World Records, Sheida Subashi, confirmed that all information had been thoroughly reviewed and met the required criteria for the record,” the message reads.

The prestigious recognition was announced at a special event celebrating Faig Hasanov’s 85th anniversary.

The ceremony, which took place with notable attendees from the world of chess, was graced by Youth and Sports Minister Farid Gayibov, President of the Azerbaijan Chess Federation and FIDE Vice-President Mahir Mammadov, former head of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) Kirsan Ilyumzhinov, President of the Georgian Chess Federation Akaki Iashvili, five-time world champion Nona Gaprindashvili, national chess team member Shahriyar Mammadyarov, and others.

Faig Hasanov’s career as a chess referee began in 1964 with his first international tournament in Baku. Over the years, he officiated numerous prestigious events, including sports contests between the nations of the USSR. In 1980, he was awarded the title of International Arbiter by FIDE.

Hasanov has served as a referee for World and European Championships, Olympiads, and the World Team Chess Championship. He also officiated the Linares tournament for 20 years and was the chief arbiter of the first FIDE Grand Prix tournament in Baku. Notably, he was a member of the reconstituted Appeal Committee during the 2006 World Chess Championship.

In addition to his work as an arbiter, Hasanov is a well-known television presenter, having hosted the weekly Şahmat Klubu (Chess Club) program on AzTV for 40 years. The program is considered one of the longest-running in the channel's history.

For his significant contributions to the development of chess in Azerbaijan, Hasanov was awarded the Shohrat Order (Order of Glory). Since 2006, he has also served as the vice-president of the Azerbaijani Chess Federation.

By Vafa Guliyeva