World Xiangqi Championships Coming to Houston in November

Chinese chess, known as Xiangqi, is set to break new ground with the 18th World Xiangqi Championships taking place in Houston on November 19–25.

More than 120 world-class players from some 30 countries and regions are expected to compete at the event, Houston Xiangqi Association president Hu Yushan said at a press conference on February 7. The championships feature men’s, women’s and junior categories.

“I am looking forward to learning this new game. Thank you so much to the International Federation (World Xiangqi Federation) for having confidence in Houston. We are very grateful and honored,” said Janis Burke, chief executive officer of the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority, co-host of the event.

According to Xiangqi.com, Chinese chess is widely played throughout Asia and has over a billion players globally. The World Xiangqi Championship debuted in Singapore in 1990 and has been organized every two years by the WXF since 1991.

“This championship will not only help promote the game, but also increase the understanding and friendship of global citizens,” Hu said.