Arda Fındıkoğlu

The Backgammon Engineer

Arda Fındıkoğlu stands as the world’s premier organizer of backgammon events, renowned for his collaboration with esteemed entities such as the WBF, WBGF, BG Galaxy, MCBA, and local organizers. With over 25 years of dedicated service to the backgammon community, Arda has successfully orchestrated more than 300 events on both national and international scales.
Pioneering the way forward, Arda directs an impressive portfolio of over 20 events annually, perpetually seeking new destinations to foster the global expansion of the game. Since 2015, he has held the esteemed position of head director for the pinnacle event of the year, the World Backgammon Championship, hosted in Monte Carlo.

A crowning achievement of his partnership with the Merit International chain, the Merit Open in Kyrenia, Northern Cyprus, stands as the largest-scale global backgammon gathering of the year. Arda also serves as an executive board member of WBGF, the esteemed World Backgammon Federation, a testament to his esteemed reputation within the community.

Arda Fındıkoğlu’s illustrious career boasts an impressive array of tournament victories spanning continents. Noteworthy triumphs include his stellar performances at esteemed events like the European Backgammon Championships, The Mitteleuropa Backgammon Championship in 2011, the Venice Open in 2022, and his recent win at the Filicudi Torneo del Mediterraneo, “Nicola Rusconi Memorial” in 2023, where he secured victories in both the main event and as the double’s finalist.

Renowned for his quick thinking and decisive play, Arda has clinched victories in Speedgammon events at the 2014 Cannes Winter Cup and the 2018 Gibraltar World Nations Backgammon Championship. Furthermore, his prowess extends to doubles play, as evidenced by his wins at events like the Georgian Open in 2012 and the Las Vegas Open in 2013. Notably, Arda has also earned finalist spots in doubles events at prestigious tournaments such as the Barrière Menton Open, the Sibenik Open, the European Backgammon Championship, and the Filicudi Torneo del Mediterraneo. His remarkable skills were recognized at the 2015 Gothenburg Open, where he was honored as the “Most Feared Player”. Additionally, Arda’s dominance extends to online tournaments and jackpots worldwide, including his victory as the Ultimate Jackpot Winner at the 2020 France World Nations Backgammon Championship.

Among his myriad accomplishments, one standout moment is his triumphant victory at the 1st Lebanese Open in 2017. In a tournament marked by challenging circumstances, Arda emerged as the ultimate champion, showcasing his exceptional skill and resilience. It’s worth noting that the tournament boasted a full bracket of 128 players, with 127 Lebanese participants and one proud Turk—Arda—who ultimately emerged victorious, epitomizing the spirit of determination and excellence.

Arda Fındıkoğlu embodies the essence and ethos of backgammon, seamlessly transitioning between roles as a dedicated organizer, meticulous director, skilled player, insightful teacher, and passionate enthusiast. Through his multifaceted contributions, he not only elevates the game but also inspires and empowers all those who have the privilege of crossing paths with him, leaving an indelible mark on the vibrant tapestry of the backgammon community.