World Schools Team Championship – International Chess Federation https://www.fide.com International Chess Federation official website. Chess Tournaments, Championships, Videos and Results. Sat, 16 May 2026 08:26:11 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 https://www.fide.com/wp-content/uploads/cropped-512a_new-32x32.png World Schools Team Championship – International Chess Federation https://www.fide.com 32 32 Registration opens for African Continental Stage of FIDE ISCF World Schools Team Championship 2026 https://www.fide.com/registration-opens-for-african-continental-stage-of-fide-iscf-world-schools-team-championship-2026/ Sat, 16 May 2026 08:24:31 +0000 https://www.fide.com/?p=46373

FIDE and the International School Chess Federation (ISCF), with the support of its general partner Freedom Holding Corp. invite all FIDE member federations from Africa to participate in the African Continental Stage of the FIDE ISCF World Schools Team Championship 2026 (WSTC 2026).

The event will be held in the Cape Town area, South Africa, from July 6 (arrival) to July 11 (departure), 2026.

The African Continental Stage will become the second continental qualifier of the new World Schools Team Championship cycle held within the framework of the Year of Chess in Education 2026 initiative. The best teams will qualify directly for the WSTC 2026 Grand Final, where the continental champions will compete for the title of FIDE ISCF World Schools Team Champion 2026.

Team composition and eligibility

Each team shall consist of:

  • four main players;
  • one reserve player;
  • one non-playing captain

Each team must include at least one boy and at least one girl, except in specific cases provided for in the Regulations for single-gender educational institutions.

Players eligible to participate must be born between January 1, 2012 and  December 31, 2018.

National federations are responsible for confirming that all players are officially enrolled in the educational institution they represent during the 2025–2026 academic year.

The tournament will be played over eight rounds using the Swiss system.

Participation conditions and organizer support

Within the framework of the Championship, selected teams will receive organizer support, including:

  • full-board accommodation;
  • airport and local transfers;
  • economy-class flight tickets for designated supported delegations

Detailed participation conditions are outlined in the official Invitation Letter and General Regulations.

Educational and cultural programme

In addition to the tournament itself, participants and guests will take part in a special educational and cultural programme organized in line with the Year of Chess in Education 2026 initiative. The programme will include:

  • masterclasses and lectures by leading chess players and educators;
  • interactive workshops;
  • side activities promoting educational exchange and intercultural dialogue

The Championship aims not only to identify the strongest school team on the continent but also to promote chess as a powerful educational and social development tool.

Registration

The registration deadline is June 18, 2026.

National federations are kindly encouraged to complete the registration process at the earliest opportunity, as the number of places in the tournament is limited, and organizer support conditions outlined in the Regulations are available only for the first 20 teams fully registered in compliance with the official requirements.

Teams may register only through their respective FIDE member federations using the official online registration form.

Registration form:
https://worldschoolteam2026.fide.com/registration-stage-africa 

Full Invitation Letter, General Regulations and registration details are available at:
https://www.fide.com/wp-content/uploads/WSTC-2026-Invitation-Letter-African-Stage-1.pdf

Contact e-mail: worldschoolteam@fide.com

Official website: https://worldschoolteam2026.fide.com/

 

]]> FIDE and ISCF announce dates for African and American Continental Stages of the World Schools Team Championship 2026 https://www.fide.com/fide-and-iscf-announce-dates-for-african-and-american-continental-stages-of-the-world-schools-team-championship-2026/ Thu, 30 Apr 2026 07:45:00 +0000 https://www.fide.com/?p=45898

FIDE and the International School Chess Federation (ISCF) are pleased to announce the dates for the African and American Continental stages of the World Schools Team Championship 2026 (WSTC 2026).

As part of the global WSTC cycle, continental events bring together leading school teams from around the world, with best teams qualifying for the Grand Final at the end of the year.

African Continental Stage
Cape Town, South Africa
July 6–11, 2026 (arrival: July 6, departure: July 11)

American Continental Stage
San Jose, Costa Rica
August 11–16, 2026 (arrival: August 11, departure: August 16)

Arkady Dvorkovich, FIDE President: 
“We are delighted to launch two new continental school championships in Africa and the Americas as part of our Year of Chess in Education. These regions are emerging chess hubs with tremendous potential. In recent years, we have seen significant progress in their chess infrastructure and school programs, and these championships will help drive that growth even further. FIDE will continue to provide support as part of our long-term strategy to expand the game beyond its traditional centers.”

Timur Turlov, ISCF President:
“I am very pleased to see the expansion of continental school championships to Africa and the Americas. These initiatives are an important step in strengthening youth engagement and building sustainable chess ecosystems in both regions. I look forward to the upcoming events in Cape Town in July and San Jose in August, which will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of players.”

The format and competition regulations remain consistent across all continental stages. Each event will be played in a team format under official FIDE regulations, ensuring a high level of sporting and organizational standards.

Each participating team must consist of:

  • four main players
  • one reserve
  • one non-playing captain

Teams are required to include both boys and girls (with limited exceptions for single-gender schools), and all players must meet the age eligibility criteria as outlined in the Regulations.

In line with the Year of Chess in Education 2026, each continental stage will also feature an educational programme alongside the competition, including masterclasses, workshops, and cultural exchange activities.

National federations are kindly invited to plan their national selection processes and prepare their teams for participation.

Registration for both events will open in due course. Further details, including invitation letters and logistical information, will be published soon.

Regulations for World Schools Team Championship 2026 (PDF)

For inquiries, please contact: worldschoolteam@fide.com  

Official website: https://worldschoolteam2026.fide.com/

]]> School chess unites continents: Winners crowned at Asian Continental Stage of World Schools Team Championship 2026 https://www.fide.com/school-chess-unites-continents-winners-crowned-at-asian-continental-stage-of-world-schools-team-championship-2026/ Sat, 11 Apr 2026 12:32:07 +0000 https://www.fide.com/?p=45173

The Asian Continental Stage of the World Schools Team Championship 2026 concluded in Almaty, Kazakhstan, with Wisdom School (Tashkent, Uzbekistan) claiming victory and securing a berth in the Grand Final scheduled for December 2026. The top Kazakh team, SEED Uniker School (Astana), finished fourth.

Organised by the International Chess Federation (FIDE), the International School Chess Federation (ISCF), the Kazakhstan Chess Federation, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and the Akimat of Almaty – with Freedom Holding Corp as General Partner – the tournament took place from April 7-10, 2026 at the Kazakhstan Hotel. It brought together 114 young players aged 8 to 14 from 19 countries, competing in an 8-round Swiss system with a time control of 45 minutes plus a 10-second increment.

The entire event embraced a space theme in honour of Cosmonautics Day on 12 April. On the final day, FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich and Kazakh cosmonaut and National Hero of Kazakhstan Aydyn Aimbetov made the ceremonial first move – a symbolic gesture highlighting the shared values of chess and space exploration: strategic thinking, teamwork, and the pursuit of new horizons.

“This tournament has become a true example of the promising future of chess on our continent and the potential of educational systems. We all understand and value the importance of education, especially at the school level. In FIDE, 2026 has been declared the Year of Chess in Education, and school team championships hold a special place among the key events of this initiative. This year, numerous conferences, seminars, and tournaments are taking place, all dedicated to promoting the positive role of chess in early development,” said FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich.

Final standings (average rating in parentheses):

  1. Wisdom School (Tashkent, Uzbekistan) (2024) – 16 match points
  2. Kurchatov School (Moscow, Russia) (2275) – 14
  3. Velammal MHS School (Chennai, India) (1908) – 12
  4. SEED Uniker School (Astana) (2023) – 10 (EMGSB – 141)
  5. Bashu Secondary School (Chongqing, China) (1722) – 10 (132)
  6. RFMSH (Almaty) (1676) – 10 (116)
  7. Maliyadeva College (Kurunegala, Sri Lanka) (1602) – 10 (95)
  8. Bolovsrol Secondary School (Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia) (1616) – 9
  9. ACG Sunderland (Auckland, New Zealand) (1834) – 8 (157)
  10. Lyceum School No. 173 (Almaty) (1818) – 8 (143)

In case of a tie, Extended Direct Encounter (EDE) was applied first, followed by EMGSB (Extended Sonneborn-Berger).

In addition to team awards, gold, silver, and bronze medals were awarded to the best players on each board (based on performance percentage). Among them were two Kazakhstani juniors.

The closing ceremony on 10 April at the Kazakhstan Hotel featured distinguished guests including  FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich, Minister of Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan Zhuldyz Suleimenova, Deputy Akim of Almaty Nurlan Abdrakhim, and President of the International School Chess Federation and the Kazakhstan Chess Federation Timur Turlov.

“The Head of State, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, has identified the formation of an intellectual nation as one of the country’s key strategic priorities. Today’s tournament clearly demonstrates the consistent implementation of this policy. Chess has firmly entered both the academic curriculum and extracurricular activities, becoming an important part of the modern school environment. It develops strategic and logical thinking and strengthens discipline among young people,” said Minister Zhuldyz Suleimenova. She also noted the successful implementation of the “Chess in Education” program in partnership with the Kazakhstan Chess Federation.

The ceremony included a performance by Junior Eurovision participant Karakat Bashanova. During her song, the lights were turned off, and the audience raised LED bracelets, creating a sky of hundreds of glowing “stars.” Organizers emphasized: “If stars are lit, it means someone needs them,” symbolizing that every child present is a future star.

The event culminated in a symbolic handover to Africa – the next continental stage – marked by a countdown and hundreds of paper airplanes launched by the audience.

“Kazakhstan is building open and friendly connections with the world,” said Timur Turlov. “I hope our tournament has contributed to this process. We are very glad that our international guests experienced genuine Kazakh hospitality and discovered Almaty. I believe the connections formed here will stay with these young players for years to come.”

Two memorandums were also signed during the event. The first established cooperation between FIDE and Freedom Holding Corp., providing additional support for national federations and chess initiatives worldwide. The second memorandum was signed between the Kazakhstan Chess Federation and the Kyrgyz Chess Union.

The Akimat of Almaty provided significant support in hosting the tournament, ensuring comfortable conditions for young players from 19 countries.

Full results: https://s2.chess-results.com/tnr1387968.aspx

Photos: World Schools Team Championship

Official website: https://worldschoolteam2026.fide.com/

]]> Asia makes its move: Asian Stage of the World Schools Team Championship 2026 kicks off in Almaty https://www.fide.com/asia-makes-its-move-asian-stage-of-the-world-schools-team-championship-2026-kicks-off-in-almaty/ Tue, 07 Apr 2026 10:26:39 +0000 https://www.fide.com/?p=44983

From April 7 to 10, 2026, Almaty hosts Asia’s premier school chess event. The Asian Continental Stage of the World Schools Team Championship 2026 has officially begun – the first tournament of its kind, organized by FIDE and the International School Chess Federation (ISCF) with the support of its general partner Freedom Holding Corp.

This marks the launch of a new global cycle. Four continents will host their own stages, with winners earning direct qualification to the Grand Final in December 2026. There, the strongest school teams in the world will compete for the world championship title. The Asian stage opens the cycle and sets the tone for the season. The year 2026 has been declared by FIDE and ISCF as the Year of Chess in Education – a global initiative highlighting the role of chess in developing critical thinking, strategy, concentration, memory, discipline, and teamwork.

President of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) Arkady Dvorkovich addressed participants in a video message:
 “Our goal is simple: we want to integrate chess into school systems around the world. We engage with governments, collaborate with international organizations, and organize school tournaments and conferences to demonstrate that chess is not just a game, but a powerful educational tool. The competition is not just a tournament stage – it also includes educational workshops and masterclasses. I hope you take full advantage of these opportunities.”

At the same time, Arkady Dvorkovich is in Cyprus attending one of the most prestigious events in the global chess calendar – the Candidates Tournament 2026, where the world’s top players compete for the right to challenge the World Champion. Among them is Bibisara Assaubayeva. Meanwhile, in Almaty, Timur Turlov opened the Asian Stage of the World Schools Team Championship – a tournament where future stars of world chess are born. Symbolically, the event takes place on the eve of Cosmonautics Day (April 12). The theme is truly “cosmic”: young players from different countries are making their first strategic moves that, like space exploration, open new horizons of thinking, teamwork, and intellectual growth. Chess teaches you to think several moves ahead – just as dreams of space inspire generations to achieve breakthroughs.

The organizers of the Asian stage include the International Chess Federation (FIDE), the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Akimat of Almaty, the International School Chess Federation (ISCF), and the Kazakhstan Chess Federation led by its President Timur Turlov. He noted:
 “Kazakhstan is not opening the global season of school chess by chance. Over the past three years, we have built a system that has turned chess into a full-fledged element of the national educational environment — with its own methodology, trained teachers, and a strong regional network. The pace of development of school chess here is among the fastest in the region. With the support of the President, we have not only launched the initiative but expanded it nationwide. Today, more than 60,000 children are systematically engaged in chess in schools, and this number continues to grow. We see real interest from students and parents, which confirms strong social demand and long-term potential. It is therefore natural that the Asian Stage of the World Schools Team Championship is held in Almaty.”

The official opening ceremony took place today, followed by the first two rounds of play. The tournament consists of eight rounds played under the Swiss system, with two rounds per day. The time control is 45+10 (45 minutes per game with a 10-second increment per move starting from move one). Teams earn 2 points for a win and 1 point for a draw.

A total of 26 school teams from 19 countries are participating, including Australia, India, China, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, and countries from Central and South Asia, among others.

All participants are students aged 8–14. Teams represent general education schools only — chess academies, specialized clubs, and mixed teams are not allowed. Each team consists of four main players and one reserve.

The tournament features some of the strongest school teams, including prize-winners of previous world competitions, ensuring a highly competitive field.

In addition to the main competition, organizers have prepared an extensive side program. Children will take part in interactive workshops and entertainment activities, while parents and local chess enthusiasts can attend masterclasses led by leading coaches and grandmasters. Dedicated educational sessions are also organized for teachers and parents, reinforcing the tournament’s educational mission.

A special highlight is a social initiative in partnership with Duolingo India: ISCF has granted a Wild Card to a girls’ team from underprivileged communities, for whom this tournament represents a meaningful step beyond their usual environment.

The program also includes exhibition matches and interactive experiences such as Quantum Chess. On April 9, a joint event with QJ League and Footlab will take place, featuring a tour of a football center, joint training sessions, and friendly challenges between football players and chess players. Participants will also be introduced to the traditional Kazakh game “Asyk Atu,” learning its history and trying it themselves. A culinary masterclass will allow children to prepare traditional Kazakh sweets.

In partnership with FIDE, ISCF is also launching the international “Chess in Education” grant program aimed at scaling proven educational models with measurable impact. The selection process will take place in two stages, with winners to be announced at the Grand Final in December 2026.

Today, chess in schools is more than just a game – it is a powerful tool for developing future-ready skills. It teaches children to make decisions under pressure, work as a team, and think strategically.

The iconic Hotel Kazakhstan, overlooking the snow-capped Zailiyskiy Alatau mountains, provides a unique setting for the tournament. Here, children not only compete but also connect, share cultures, and become part of a global community. The tournament brings together sport, education, and culture, demonstrating that chess can serve as a bridge between continents.

The hosting of the tournament in Almaty has been made possible thanks to the support of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Akimat of Almaty, and the Almaty Sports Department, whose contribution plays a key role in developing the city as an international hub for intellectual sport and major global events.

Almaty is ready to welcome young players and showcase how chess unites continents and creates a true celebration of intellect. This is more than a tournament – it is a festival where children play, learn, connect, and take their first steps into a global future. Every move on the board can open new horizons – not only in chess, but in life.

Photos: World Schools Team Championship

Official website: https://worldschoolteam2026.fide.com/

]]> Asian Continental stage of FIDE ISCF World Schools Team Championship 2026 announced https://www.fide.com/asian-continental-stage-of-fide-iscf-world-schools-team-championship-2026-announced/ Fri, 20 Feb 2026 06:04:12 +0000 https://www.fide.com/?p=43799

FIDE and the International School Chess Federation (ISCF) invite all FIDE member federations from Asia to participate in the Asian Continental stage of the World Schools Team Championship 2026 (WSTC 2026).

The competition will take place in Almaty, Kazakhstan, from April 6 (arrival) to April 11 (departure), 2026, at the Hotel Kazakhstan.

The winning team will earn the title of Asian Continental School Team Champion and qualify directly for the WSTC 2026 Grand Final, where four continental champions will compete for the title of FIDE ISCF World Schools Team Champion 2026.

Team composition & eligibility

Each team must consist of:

  • four main players
  • one reserve
  • one non-playing captain

Each team must include at least one boy and one girl (with limited exceptions for single-gender schools).

Eligible players must be born between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2018.

National federations are responsible for verifying that participating children are enrolled in the school they represent during the 2025–2026 academic year.

The tournament will be played over eight rounds (Swiss system).

Participation & support

In accordance with the event framework, a number of teams will receive organizer support, including:

  • full-board accommodation
  • airport and local transfers
  • economy-class flights for designated supported teams

Detailed conditions are outlined in the official Invitation and Regulations.

Educational programme

In line with the Year of Chess in Education 2026, the championship will feature an educational programme alongside the competition, including:

  • masterclasses by leading chess players and educators
  • interactive workshops
  • side events promoting cultural exchange and educational collaboration

The programme aims to combine competitive excellence with meaningful educational impact.

Registration

The registration deadline is March 20, 2026.

Teams must register exclusively through their respective FIDE member federations via the official online registration form. 

Teams can register using the online form at: https://worldschoolteam2026.fide.com/registration 

Full Invitation, Regulations and registration details are available at: https://worldschoolteam2026.fide.com/files/Invitation_letter_WSTC_2026.pdf 

Contact e-mail: worldschoolteam@fide.com
Official website: https://worldschoolteam2026.fide.com/

INVITATION LETTER (PDF)

]]> idChess Technology at the WSTCC 2025: Live streaming, VAR, and video highlights https://www.fide.com/idchess-technology-at-the-2025-world-schools-team-chess-championship-live-streaming-var-and-video-highlights/ Mon, 11 Aug 2025 21:17:43 +0000 https://www.fide.com/?p=37458

The 2025 World Schools Team Championship took place at Episcopal High School — just 11 kilometers from downtown Washington, D.C. — from August 3–7, bringing together over 50 teams from six continents. For the first time in the history of the competition, it featured innovative idChess technology for real-time game broadcasting to chess fans around the world.

idChess enables live game broadcasting on any chessboard using only a smartphone: phones are mounted on tripods beside the boards, and games are automatically converted into PGN format through computer vision and AI technologies. The platform also supports VAR — a video assistant for chess — helping arbiters make informed decisions in controversial situations. In July 2023, FIDE announced the adoption of idChess VAR at international tournaments, marking a new approach to officiating and ensuring fair play while providing players, coaches, and fans with richer content and deeper insight into games.

Another notable feature is the automatic creation of video highlights. Trained on millions of chess games, the idChess neural network identifies and marks the best moves and combinations. The platform then generates short video clips, which tournament organizers can publish on their page on the idChess Media Platform. Watch the games of the World School Team Championship here.

“The World Schools Team Championship is not only a celebration of young chess talents but also a platform for innovation,” said FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich.

“By integrating idChess into this year’s event, we are setting a new standard in how youth competitions are run and experienced around the world. It reflects our commitment to making chess more accessible and engaging, especially for the next generation.”

idChess technology is now used at tournaments in more than 150 countries, including national championships, international opens, school competitions, and regular chess club meetings. The platform is recognized for its simplicity, requiring only smartphones, tripods, and a stable internet connection.

For organizers, idChess offers a fast and affordable way to enter the world of digital broadcasting. Schools and federations can adopt the system with minimal technical training, opening new possibilities for promotion, engagement, and game review. Organizers can submit a request to receive free access to a tournament organizer account.

idChess official website: idchess.com/

]]> Velammal MHS School (India) takes gold at 2025 World Schools Team Championship https://www.fide.com/velammal-mhs-school-india-takes-gold-at-2025-world-schools-team-championship/ Thu, 07 Aug 2025 00:22:12 +0000 https://www.fide.com/?p=37373

After eight exciting rounds, the 2025 World Schools Team Championship wrapped up today in Alexandria, Virginia. Set on the beautiful campus of Episcopal High School, the event brought together some of the most talented young chess players from around the world. Rising above the rest with a perfect score, Velammal MHS School from India claimed the gold medal, winning all eight of their matches.

With India continuing to make waves across all levels and formats of chess, this victory adds yet another title to the country’s growing collection. Velammal MHS is no stranger to success—former students include Grandmasters R. Praggnanandhaa and Leon Mendonca. So it came as little surprise when the team entered the final round with the top spot already secured.

The race for second place was much closer, with seven teams still in contention heading into the final round. Kazakhstan’s National School of Physics and Mathematics ultimately clinched the silver medal, finishing with the same number of match points as The Harker School (USA) but edging them out on tiebreaks. The Harker School earned a well-deserved third place, just ahead of Astana 2 RSPM, who narrowly missed the podium.

Top 10 Final Standings:

Complete final standings 

In addition to team honors, board medals were awarded to players who delivered outstanding individual performances. Three participants finished with perfect scores (8 out of 8)—a remarkable achievement: Imangali Akhilbay (KAZ – National School of Physics and Mathematics) on board two (pictured below, left), Edisa Berdibaeva (KGZ – School-Gymnasium No. 11, Karakol) on board three, and Pranav K. P. (IND – Velammal MHS School), who played reserve on board five.

After the final moves were played, players were treated to fun and educational excursions in Washington, D.C. They visited the National Museum of Natural History and the National Air and Space Museum —two of the city’s most iconic landmarks. With most teams heading home the next day, these outings were the perfect way to cap off their time in the U.S.

The week came to a close with a vibrant closing ceremony in the auditorium. The evening kicked off with music, audience engagement, and a warm welcome from the host, followed by the U.S. national anthem. David Hater, FIDE delegate and Executive Board Member of the U.S. Chess Federation, gave opening remarks before the FIDE anthem played.

FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich then took the stage to address the audience, extending his congratulations to the champions and gratitude to all who contributed to the event’s success: “I want to start by congratulating the winners on their great result! Your success is well-deserved, and I hope you leave here with not only medals but also with experiences that will encourage you to achieve more in life. And to all the other teams and their coaches, thank you for the passion and sportsmanship you showed. You have all made this event into a true example of what chess is all about; sportsmanship, friendship, creativity and progress.”

A highlight reel followed, showing memorable moments from the week and drawing cheers as players spotted themselves and their teams on screen. Chief Arbiter Alex McFarlane then addressed the crowd, thanked the officials and arbiters, and confirmed everything was in order to begin the awards.

Board medals were handed out one by one, with FIDE Vice Presidents and officials joining the Chief Arbiter to present the honours. Tournament Director Nadzeya Krauchuk took the stage next and introduced a second video, this one capturing the off-the-board moments that defined the spirit of the event. (All videos and content can be found on the official FIDE YouTube channel).

Then came the big moment: the team awards. The top three schools were announced, with Velammal MHS School stepping onto the top of the podium as confetti filled the air and the Indian national anthem played. It was a joyful celebration of a week of dedication and hard work. Flags were raised, as FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich returned to the stage to officially declare the 2025 World Schools Team Championship closed.

As the curtain closes on this remarkable event, what remains are the connections, memories, and achievements shared by students from across the globe. The 2025 World Schools Team Championship will be remembered not only for its competitive excellence, but also for its message of unity, friendship, and the future of chess.

Written by Charlize van Zyl

Photos: Michal Walusza

Official website: worldschoolteam2025.fide.com/

]]> Smart Moves Summit sets out global vision for chess in education https://www.fide.com/smart-moves-summit-sets-out-global-vision-for-chess-in-education/ Tue, 05 Aug 2025 23:49:47 +0000 https://www.fide.com/?p=37352

The first-ever global conference on the role of chess in education concluded in Washington D.C. today with a call to governments and education institutions to integrate chess into formal and informal learning environments, including schools.

Over 50 speakers – including eminent scientists and researchers in the fields of education and cognitive studies, educators, coaches, leaders of state and international chess projects, chess-tech entrepreneurs, government officials and influencers – took part in the two-day event aimed at discussing the educational and cognitive benefits of chess.

Organised by FIDE and the International Schools Chess Federation, and sponsored by the NASDAQ-listed Freedom Holding Corporation, the second day of the Smart Moves Summit saw lectures, panel discussions and presentations ranging from real human stories on how chess helped change the lives of people around the world, to building financially viable chess initiatives and private-public partnerships, to how social media is redefining the image of chess.

The conference concluded with a declaration, setting the ground for a global effort to get national and international bodies and institutions to formally recognise and include chess in education and social programmes.

The declaration calls for the integration of chess “into formal and informal learning environments, including public schools, after-school programmes, and digital platforms”.

Steps to be taken include providing teacher training, curriculum framework, and evidence-based support to scale sustainable chess education programs.

The signatories of the declaration have committed themselves to expanding access to chess education in underserved communities, addressing gender disparities and ensuring inclusive practices for children with disabilities, refugees and the displaced.

True stories of chess changing lives

The central panel discussion on the second day of the “Smart Moves Summit” titled “The power of chess to change lives”, offered a compelling look at how the game has transformed the fortunes of people from challenging backgrounds.

Dr. Jenny D. Ingber, President & CEO of Chess in the Schools (pictured above), opened the session by recounting the journey of a young student named Eva, who went from a curious beginner to a confident competitor and mentor. Ingber emphasised that for many low-income students, chess serves as a “mirror, a ladder, a doorway” to a better future. “Chess does not care where you’re from, how much money your parents make or what language you speak,” Ingber said, “It only asks, can you think ahead?”

Rochelle Ballantyne, a litigation associate and alumna of the Chess in the Schools programme (pictured below), provided her own account of her journey as a low-income Black girl from Brooklyn to a lawyer. She credited her family and Chess in the Schools for her success, while also openly sharing her experiences with racism and exclusion at tournaments. Ballantyne stated that her “pride became a foundation, giving me the strength to push myself in the face of discomfort and adversity.”

Kwadwo Acheampong, a Senior VP at PIMCO and another program alumnus, spoke about how chess provided him with structure, confidence, and community as a shy immigrant child in the Bronx, and even influenced his career in finance. Acheampong underscored the lesson that “it’s not often the moves you make that are important, but the moves you don’t make”. He concluded by stating that “chess gave me the platform and the confidence to say, ‘I am a leader’”.

A coach and social entrepreneur from Uganda, Robert Katende (pictured below), shared stories of how chess has transformed the lives of youth living in slums and those with disabilities. He detailed the journeys of two people – one who became a national champion and then an engineer, while the other – a disabled player – competed internationally and got to step outside of Uganda thanks to chess.

Katende’s philosophy is centred on producing “life champions” rather than just titled players, explaining, “I may not have produced Grandmasters, but I have produced thousands of life champions”.

David Heiser (pictured below) and Arlecia Taylor from the Renaissance Knights Chess Foundation and Chicago Public Schools, respectively, highlighted their work in Chicago’s underserved communities. Their initiatives, which range from police-student programmes to mentorships for children, focus on inclusion, healing trauma, and creating opportunities. They described chess as a “great equalizer” and a tool that teaches children that “maybe my next move matters.”

How to better market and present chess to the public and the sponsors

As chess is increasingly being used in education, one of the conversations emerging is how to better market and present chess and its benefits to a wider population. This was the topic of the “Strategic Partnerships: Sponsorship and Marketing at the Crossroads of Chess and Education” at the Smart Moves Summit.

Lidia Perovskaya (pictured above), head of communications for the International Collegiate Programming Contest (ICPC), shared her organisation’s approach to promoting their work. Perovskaya emphasised the importance of the entire community sharing the rewards of the game, so “even if you’re not in the top 10, you would still have plenty of opportunities and become part of the community”. She identified three key categories of partners: academic, corporate, and general brands. She emphasised that partnerships work best when sponsors share the vision of building a community first and foremost. “We are always looking for long-term relationships for meaningful partnerships,” she said, stressing that they seek companies who are “truly invested in a long-term game”. She noted that universities and schools, as academic partners, provide an “instant connection” because they share a core value of seeking talent and ambition in young people.

Moldovan Grandmaster and FIDE Executive Director Victor Bologan (pictured above) addressed what he sees as the main problem in modern chess: its fragmentation. He explained that while the chess world has many excellent elements, it lacks a unified ecosystem that brings together online platforms, clubs, organisations, and individuals under one umbrella. To solve this, Bologan is developing Chess ID, a new company aimed at creating a single “window of access” to all chess services for players and partners.

Bologan believes this platform will make chess more organised and accessible. He noted the number of FIDE-registered players is small number compared to the estimated 600-800 million global players. Chess ID aims to help organisations, including FIDE, engage a wider audience by providing tools to build statistics and networks. He also highlighted the potential for AI to be used to optimise the educational and training process for players.

Jon Kristian Haarr, Vice President of the Norwegian Chess Federation (pictured above), discussed how to make chess education “compelling” to brands. He stated that securing funding depends on whether chess is perceived in a positive light. While acknowledging the historical mystery and recent controversies surrounding the game, he noted that events like the Netflix series “The Queen’s Gambit” and the rise of young stars like Gukesh have led to an “unprecedented growth in cultural relevance”.

Haarr argued that to get chess into more schools, the chess community must “sell it properly” by making clearer the arguments in favour of chess. He emphasised the need for better storytelling and clear communication to convince politicians, officials and schools that chess is a worthwhile educational tool.

Geert van der Velde, former CEO of Chessable (pictured above), posed a direct message to young players and their parents: the question isn’t “How do I get sponsored?” but “How do I become sponsorable?”. He explained that sponsors are not charities; they are looking for three things in a player: “reach, influence and brand alignment”.

Drawing from his background as a musician, van der Velde explained that musicians build fan bases early, while chess players often only have “followers” who are invested in the game, not the person. In his opinion, it is up to the players to build a community and a personal brand and not hope for a sponsor to emerge. The story of former World Champion Ding Liren’s vulnerability and mental health struggles ahead of his match with Gukesh, he said, made the Chinese GM relatable and likeable to fans, proving that a player’s story can be just as important as their results on the board.

An opportunity for the future

As chess continues to grow, the chance to embed it into everyday life will depend on a clear plan and strategic partnerships. The Smart Moves Summit in Washington D.C. has laid strong foundations for a project that seeks to empower the next generation of players — and position chess as a powerful tool for learning and personal development.

]]> Velammal MHS School of India pulls ahead at the World Schools Team Championship https://www.fide.com/velammal-mhs-school-of-india-pulls-ahead-at-the-world-schools-team-championship/ Tue, 05 Aug 2025 22:23:56 +0000 https://www.fide.com/?p=37325

Day 3 of the World Schools Team Championship delivered another dose of high-stakes drama and memorable moments, both on and off the board. With two rounds played, the competition intensified as top contenders clashed, and underdogs continued to defy expectations. At the close of the day, India’s Velammal MHS School leads the event, holding strong as the tournament moves toward its final stage.

All eyes in Round 5 turned to the top board, where a clash between the first and second seeds took centre stage. Kazakhstan’s National School of Physics and Mathematics faced off against Velammal MHS School in a match that lived up to the hype. With board one ending in a draw, it was the bottom two boards that made the difference; both claimed by the young Indian team, securing them a critical victory in the fight for first place.

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka’s Royal College, Colombo continued their amazing run with another upset, this time against Slovakia’s Gymnázium, Grösslingová 18, Bratislava. The final score was 2.5-1.5, with all boards drawing except for board two, where the 1620-rated Sri Lankan player stunned his much higher-rated opponent (rated 2016) with a beautifully played finish. This victory propelled Sri Lanka into joint lead, setting up a highly anticipated Round 6 showdown against India with both teams entering the match on perfect scores.

In this top-of-the-table encounter, between Velammal MHS School and Royal College, Colombo the Indian team proved too strong, claiming a convincing 3.5-0.5 victory over with two wins and two draws. The result solidified India’s position at the top of the standings heading into the final rounds.

Away from the competition tables, the tournament continues to offer a wide range of activities designed to create a fun and social atmosphere for the players. As mentioned in previous updates, the players’ lounge remains a popular hangout, with its mix of games, beanbags, and chill-out zones. But the fun doesn’t stop there – each day wraps up with group activities, from basketball to nature walks, there are a lot of options for the kids to enjoy and socialize with each other.

Today’s end of the day activity included a swanky silent disco – which, if you are older and haven’t heard of or experienced before yet (like me!) it is a party setting where music is played through individual headphones for every person. A wonderful setting for fun and to make new friends! Earlier in the day, and also ahead of the championship, players were treated to an excursion to the US Capitol, offering them the chance to take in some local history and culture.

Tomorrow marks the seventh and eighth rounds of the tournament. With tensions mounting, and only one day left to play, the stage is set for an exciting finale that will determine the 2025 World Schools Team Champions.

Moment of the day

The result from round 5 with Sri Lanka’s Royal College beating the higher seed Slovakia’s Gymnázium, Grösslingová with a critical victory, is an incredible result in itself. But the way the decisive game ended made it even more memorable:

NF-DG01

White just blundered with 26.Qd4?? And suddenly the white king was in grave danger. Black pounced with 26…Qf3! (26…Nf3 was more accurate, but the move played was both elegant and effective). White tried  27.Nf4, defending the g2-pawn but it failed to 27…Nh3+! 28.Kh1 Nxf4 29.Rg1 Nxg2 30.Qb2 and White resigned, facing imminent checkmate after 30…Nf4+.

Top 10 after Round 6

Smart Moves Summit

Day two of the Smart Moves Summit focused on how chess connects with business, communication, and education. The day opened with a series of TED-style talks exploring the transformative power of chess, followed by a panel on sponsorships and strategic partnerships at the crossroads of chess and learning.

Keynote speakers then discussed how to build sustainable school chess programs, and a roundtable discussion featuring top streamers and chess social media managers explored the growing role of social media, gaming, and online platforms in chess promotion. Alongside the main sessions, masterclasses covered topics such as inclusive environments, fair play through data, and effective training methods.

As the summit concludes and the final rounds of chess approach, both the competitive and educational aspects of this event reflect the richness and global reach of the chess world.

Written by: Charlize van Zyl

Photos: Michal Walusza

Official website: worldschoolteam2025.fide.com/

]]> Making the case for chess in the classroom: The first day of the Smart Moves Summit https://www.fide.com/making-the-case-for-chess-in-the-classroom-the-first-day-of-the-smart-moves-summit/ Mon, 04 Aug 2025 23:57:25 +0000 https://www.fide.com/?p=37304

The Smart Moves Summit – a first of its kind global education conference focusing on the transformative power of chess in education – opened in Washington D.C.

The prestigious Episcopal High School in Alexandria will, for two days, play host to government officials, scientists, researchers, EdTech entrepreneurs, innovators, and chess experts. The international conference aims to build a global framework for cognitive development through chess and promote the game’s role in education.

The Smart Moves Summit is organised by FIDE and the International School Chess Federation (ISCF), with sponsorship from Freedom Holding.

Congressman Jamie Raskin, of Maryland’s 8th congressional district, opened the event. Raskin, a prominent fan of the game and a staunch supporter of chess in education, noted that the U.S. Chess Center, a significant and historically noteworthy non-profit located in his district, has taught chess to over 40,000 students.

Chess as a mechanism for non-violent conflict resolution

Congressman Raskin noted the importance of chess “as a mechanism for non-violent conflict resolution and strategical critical thinking”.

He argued that chess is crucial to solving modern societal problems, as it promotes critical thinking over propaganda, strategic planning over impetuous behaviour, and non-violent, diplomatic resolution over violence.

“Chess can be a major part of the solution to the problems that beset Humanity right now. It seems like we’ve got a bunch of choices to make, what is? Are we going to try to promote critical thinking skills among young people, or are we going to promote Dogma and propaganda in fake news and conspiracy theory,” Raskin said.

He noted that, while chess promotes healthy competition, this competition is ultimately with oneself to achieve higher levels of thinking, and must be linked with a sense of community.

Congressman Raskin thanked FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich and Freedom Holding CEO Timur Turlov for organising the Smart Move Summit, stating that their work is essential “to get us through the current crisis in world affairs in politics and in government”.

Fighting for focus in a fast-moving world

Timur Turlov, President of the ISCF and CEO of Freedom Holding, spoke about the challenges of living in a fast-moving world and the importance of adapting educational systems.

He highlighted the “ability to keep concentration” as the most valuable asset in an attention economy, and proposed that chess is an excellent tool to train this skill.

Turlov gave details of an initiative to implement chess in over 500 schools in Kazakhstan, with plans for more, and mentioned that scientific studies are underway to measure the results.

“We believe that the most valuable thing in our life now is our ability to keep concentration… and I really believe that chess could be a very great tool to overcome this challenge. Because chess is a very interesting game, it’s a game that can keep your attention for a long period of time and is a beautiful way to train your ability to concentrate,” Turlov said.

Arkady Dvorkovich on the importance of school chess championships for children

In his address, FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich highlighted the importance of evolving educational systems to keep pace with rapid technological change. He argued that despite technological advancements, personal interaction remains key to the exchange of ideas and improvement.

Advocating the vital role chess has in education, Dvorkovich pointed out that events such as school championships, which put children in different settings to their everyday lives, are an important point of communication breeding progress.

“The whole idea of the World Schools Team Championship also came from that Soviet tradition,” Dvorkovich said. “My father was involved in that. By introducing chess into the educational system, we put students in these situations that are unknown in the classroom since they have to face a different world… they have to face some moves that matter, some smart moves, and they start thinking about how those pieces interact and how to think about the whole chessboard, and the surrounding, not just about one square.”

Real examples: How chess is changing education and improving societies

The first day of the Smart Moves Summit featured five panel discussions and a workshop. The topics included the role of chess in early and primary education, a global case study analysis on using chess to advance gender and socio-economic equality, and the opportunities of digital and educational platforms to harness the game’s power. Other sessions focused on aligning chess-based learning methodologies with public education goals, and a chess and math workshop.

The central event of the day was a panel titled “Strategic Leadership in Global Chess Education,” which discussed long-term strategies, cross-sector collaboration, and how to drive initiatives to include chess as a part of official government policies.

Moderated by Dana Reizniece, Deputy Chair of the FIDE Management Board and the former Latvian Minister of Finance, the session featured government officials and program heads of organisations focusing on chess in education.

Timur Turlov, CEO of Freedom Holding, set the stage by describing chess education as a “long-term investment” in the mindset of an entire generation rather than “charity”, as its often seen.

“Strategy, self-control, attention management, the ability to think as part of a team—these are skills no modern leader can do without,” Turlov said. “And if we want these questions to develop internationally, we must integrate chess into the education system as a core subject.”

Turlov concluded by outlining his goal to build a global exchange platform for best practices in work and life principles, built through chess.

The discussion quickly shifted to the political and practical implementation of chess. Costa Rican Minister of Sport and Recreation Donald Rojas Fernández shared compelling data from pilot programs, revealing a decrease in bullying and an average eight percent increase in math and science grades among students who learned chess.

“The numbers don’t lie,” Fernandez stated, underscoring that the positive academic and social outcomes of implementing chess in education. This also helped influence the decision of the government of Costa Rica to make chess a national priority.

Echoing this sentiment, Minister Chad Blackman of Barbados announced a bold vision to transform his country’s education system by placing chess at its core.

In his speech, Blackman declared the goal is to make Barbados a world leader in education within seven years. He plans to use chess as a key tool to cultivate “globally competitive, confident, and resilient thinkers,” emphasizing a move to make the game a fundamental part of the curriculum from the early childhood level, rather than just an extracurricular activity.

Academic experts also provided insights on the value of chess. Dr. William Poucher, Executive Director of the International Collegiate Programming Contest – whose members work at leading tech companies such as OpenAI, Google, and Meta – drew a direct line from chess to the team-based problem-solving skills needed in modern technology and innovation.

Poucher highlighted that the competitive but collaborative nature of chess prepares students to work in teams and build on each other’s strengths, an approach also implemented by AI.

Finally, the panel addressed the practical challenge of integrating chess into schools. Steinar Sæthre, from the Savings Bank Foundation DNB in Norway, noted that schools are increasingly requesting activities like chess to combat a decline in student attention spans. He also shared data showing that 25% of the entire Norwegian population has a chess account on Chess.com, one of the leading global online chess platforms.

Michael Norgaard, the Chief Learning Officer at the Danish Scholastic Chess Federation, argued that chess’s value, not just its low cost, should be the focus in getting governments to integrate it in education. His organisation develops practical, user-friendly tools that empower teachers with minimal chess knowledge to effectively teach chess, thereby ensuring its sustainability and widespread adoption.

The session concluded with a unified call for collaborative action among governments, corporations, and educational institutions to make chess a fundamental part of global education, preparing students for a future that demands strategic, resilient, and collaborative thinking.

The panel was followed by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between ISCF, FIDE and the government of Costa Rica for providing more support for chess in education.

The conference will continue on Tuesday, August 5.

The full programme can be found here:
 worldschoolteam2025.fide.com/events-schedule/

Photos: Michal Walusza

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