Azerbaijan chess legend sets two world records with incredible 60-year career

Faig Gasanov (Azerbaijan) has a rich history in the field of chess, and now it’s officially record-breaking.

The 85-year-old renowned international chess arbiter has been awarded not one, but two Guinness World Records titles!

Both titles honour his lifetime of dedication to chess - he has the longest career as a chess referee (male) with 60 years and 149 days and longest running sports TV programme  (same presenter) thanks to his role in Azerbaijan’s TV show Chess Club. 

He has been presenting the show for an impressive 55 years and 277 days.

Faig was first introduced to chess as a child, and the passion he felt for the game eventually led him to become involved in the refereeing side of the sport.

Over the years, he gained the title of International Arbiter from the International Chess Federation (FIDE) and steadily rose to prominent roles in chess administration.

He formally began his refereeing career at a Baku international tournament in 1964, where he quickly gained recognition for his knowledge and fair judgment.

This led him to work across many tournaments and championships such as the Linares tournaments, Chess Olympiads, and the World/European Championships. 

In his free time, he trains and mentors the new generation of international arbiters and continues to promote and educate others in chess regularly.

Faig was awarded his two certificates by Official Adjudicator Seyda Subasi-Gemichi surrounded by his family, colleagues from the chess community, including the President of the Azerbaijan Chess Federation.

He regards this record as a tribute to his lifelong love for chess and hopes this achievement will highlight the vital role of chess referees worldwide.