{"id":39437,"date":"2025-10-20T20:11:06","date_gmt":"2025-10-20T20:11:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.fide.com\/?p=39437"},"modified":"2025-10-21T07:47:29","modified_gmt":"2025-10-21T07:47:29","slug":"fide-olympiad-for-people-with-disabilities-day-1-a-celebration-of-inclusivity-and-determination","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.fide.com\/fide-olympiad-for-people-with-disabilities-day-1-a-celebration-of-inclusivity-and-determination\/","title":{"rendered":"FIDE Olympiad for People with Disabilities, Day 1: A celebration of inclusivity and determination"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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The 2nd FIDE Olympiad for People with Disabilities officially began in Astana, Kazakhstan, bringing together 34 teams from 29 countries. Additionally, eight more nations are represented through the teams of the IPCA (International Physically Disabled Chess Association), IBCA (International Blind Chess Association), and ICCD (International Committee of Silent Chess) \u2014 making it a truly global event, with participants from 37 countries in total.<\/p>

The games are hosted at the Paralympic Training Centre, one of the most advanced and accessible sports facilities in Central Asia. With two spacious playing halls, the venue offers perfect and comfortable conditions for all participants, reflecting the Olympiad\u2019s core message of inclusion and equal opportunity.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Opening ceremony<\/strong><\/p>

The opening ceremony was held in a warm and inspiring atmosphere, attended by dignitaries, players, and guests who celebrated the start of this unique event.<\/p>

In the main playing hall, the first ceremonial move was made by Erlan Karin, State Counsellor of the Republic of Kazakhstan; Arkady Dvorkovich, President of FIDE; and Timur Turlov, President of the Kazakhstan Chess Federation.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Timur Turlov spoke about the significance of this Olympiad, saying:<\/p>

\u201cChess is a great symbol of equality and an opportunity to play across the globe. Having differences doesn\u2019t change that \u2013 chess unites.\u201d<\/p>

In the second playing hall, the first move was performed by Baglana Musina, President of the Corporate Fund Freedom Shapagat; Oscar Santana Leon, Ambassador of Cuba; and Dmitriy Balandin, Olympic Swimming Champion.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich emphasized the importance of inclusivity in chess, noting that this Olympiad stands as a model of equal opportunity:<\/p>

\u201cChess is inclusive, and we must ensure that everyone has access to top events. The Olympiad for People with Disabilities proves that we are creating those opportunities for all.\u201d<\/p>

He also highlighted FIDE\u2019s broader commitment to social initiatives around the world:<\/p>

\u201cThrough projects like Chess for Refugees, Chess for Freedom, and Chess for Children with Autism, we\u2019re showing that chess is truly for everyone. This Olympiad is our flagship event \u2013 a reminder that chess is accessible and brings happiness to all who play it.\u201d<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Voices of the 2nd Olympiad for People with Disabilities<\/strong><\/p>

The Olympiad is not only about the results \u2013 it\u2019s about people and their stories. Every participant brings a story of resilience, courage, and passion for the game.<\/p>

Shantel Panashe Gweshe from Zimbabwe, a social worker and first-time Olympiad participant, shared her experience:<\/p>

\u201cIt\u2019s my first time coming all the way from Zimbabwe, participating in this Olympiad. What I have seen here \u2013 there\u2019s so much inclusivity for people living with disabilities. When I go back to Zimbabwe, the first thing I\u2019m going to do is empower other people with disabilities to ensure inclusivity and participation.\u201d<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Meanwhile, Henry Lopez from the Philippines (pictured above), who won a bronze medal at the first Olympiad in Serbia in 2023, reflected on how deeply chess has shaped his life:<\/p>

\u201cChess for me now is my source of living. I am a national team player in the Philippines, and I receive a stipend from the government. Chess is a universal language \u2013 it\u2019s a great equalizer. No matter how old or young you are, or whether you have a disability, you can play. Chess is for everybody.\u201d<\/p>

With determination in his voice, Henry added:<\/p>

\u201cAt the previous Olympiad, we got third \u2013 this time, frankly speaking, we are aiming for number one.\u201d<\/p>

This is what the FIDE Olympiad for People with Disabilities is truly about \u2013 gathering players from all around the world, giving them opportunities to show the power of their minds, and celebrating the unifying strength of chess.<\/p>

Games and results<\/strong><\/p>

The first round brought exciting games and strong performances by the top teams. Almost all favorites won their matches convincingly.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Uzbekistan, India, Venezuela, and FIDE 1 began their campaigns with impressive 4\u20130 victories.<\/p>

There were, however, two notable ties: North Macedonia held the Czech Republic to a 2\u20132 draw, and ICCD (International Committee of Silent Chess) also drew with Argentina.<\/p>

You can find all results, pairings, and standings after the first round on Chess-Results:<\/p>

s3.chess-results.com\/tnr1276749.aspx?lan=1&art=0&rd=1&SNode=S0<\/strong><\/a><\/p>

Side events in Astana<\/strong><\/p>

In addition to the competition, today featured two important milestones for the global chess community.<\/p>

A Memorandum on Declaring 2026 the Year of Chess in Education was signed between FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich and President of the International School Chess Federation Timur Turlov, who also leads the Kazakhstan Chess Federation.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Following the signing, Timur Turlov said:<\/p>

\u201cI hope that it will help a lot of kids to discover themselves better \u2013 to train their ability for strategic thinking, to keep concentration, to build clubs, and to make friends across the globe.\u201d<\/p>

FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich highlighted that this initiative aims to significantly expand chess participation among young people:<\/p>

\u201cOur goal is to double the number of children playing chess worldwide, and our partnership with the International School Chess Federation will help us make that a reality.\u201d<\/p>

Another memorandum was signed between Turkey, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan, establishing an Association of Turkic-Speaking Countries. This new initiative aims to bring the work of these nations closer together, strengthening cooperation in chess development and the organization of joint events.<\/p>

A celebration of unity and inclusion<\/strong><\/p>

The first day of the 2nd FIDE Olympiad for People with Disabilities set the tone for a remarkable event \u2013 one that celebrates not only competitive excellence, but also the human values of inclusion, equality, and respect.<\/p>

\"\"<\/pre>
The Paralympic Training Centre in Astana has become a home for players from all corners of the world, united by one timeless truth: chess is for everyone.<\/p>
Official website: dis-olympiad2025.fide.com\/<\/a> <\/strong><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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The 2nd FIDE Olympiad for People with Disabilities officially began in Astana, Kazakhstan, bringing together 34 teams from 29 countries. Additionally, eight more nations are represented through the teams of the IPCA (International Physically Disabled Chess Association), IBCA (International Blind Chess Association), and ICCD (International Committee of Silent Chess) \u2014 making it a truly global event, with participants from 37 countries in total. The games are hosted at the Paralympic Training Centre, one of the most advanced and accessible sports facilities in Central Asia. With two spacious playing halls, the venue offers perfect and comfortable conditions for all participants, reflecting the Olympiad\u2019s core message of inclusion and equal opportunity. Opening ceremony The opening ceremony was held in a warm and inspiring atmosphere, attended by dignitaries, players, and guests who celebrated the start of this unique event. In the main playing hall, the first ceremonial move was made by Erlan Karin, State Counsellor of the Republic of Kazakhstan; Arkady Dvorkovich, President of FIDE; and Timur Turlov, President of the Kazakhstan Chess Federation. Timur Turlov spoke about the significance of this Olympiad, saying: \u201cChess is a great symbol of equality and an opportunity to play across the globe. Having differences doesn\u2019t change that \u2013 chess unites.\u201d In the second playing hall, the first move was performed by Baglana Musina, President of the Corporate Fund Freedom Shapagat; Oscar Santana Leon, Ambassador of Cuba; and Dmitriy Balandin, Olympic Swimming Champion. FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich emphasized the importance of inclusivity in chess, noting that this Olympiad stands as a model of equal opportunity: \u201cChess is inclusive, and we must ensure that everyone has access to top events. The Olympiad for People with Disabilities proves that we are creating those opportunities for all.\u201d He also highlighted FIDE\u2019s broader commitment to social initiatives around the world: \u201cThrough projects like Chess for Refugees, Chess for Freedom, and Chess for Children with Autism, we\u2019re showing that chess is truly for everyone. This Olympiad is our flagship event \u2013 a reminder that chess is accessible and brings happiness to all who play it.\u201d Voices of the 2nd Olympiad for People with Disabilities The Olympiad is not only about the results \u2013 it\u2019s about people and their stories. Every participant brings a story of resilience, courage, and passion for the game. Shantel Panashe Gweshe from Zimbabwe, a social worker and first-time Olympiad participant, shared her experience: \u201cIt\u2019s my first time coming all the way from Zimbabwe, participating in this Olympiad. What I have seen here \u2013 there\u2019s so much inclusivity for people living with disabilities. When I go back to Zimbabwe, the first thing I\u2019m going to do is empower other people with disabilities to ensure inclusivity and participation.\u201d Meanwhile, Henry Lopez from the Philippines (pictured above), who won a bronze medal at the first Olympiad in Serbia in 2023, reflected on how deeply chess has shaped his life: \u201cChess for me now is my source of living. I am a national team player in the Philippines, and I receive a stipend from the government. Chess is a universal language \u2013 it\u2019s a great equalizer. No matter how old or young you are, or whether you have a disability, you can play. Chess is for everybody.\u201d With determination in his voice, Henry added: \u201cAt the previous Olympiad, we got third \u2013 this time, frankly speaking, we are aiming for number one.\u201d This is what the FIDE Olympiad for People with Disabilities is truly about \u2013 gathering players from all around the world, giving them opportunities to show the power of their minds, and celebrating the unifying strength of chess. Games and results The first round brought exciting games and strong performances by the top teams. Almost all favorites won their matches convincingly. Uzbekistan, India, Venezuela, and FIDE 1 began their campaigns with impressive 4\u20130 victories. There were, however, two notable ties: North Macedonia held the Czech Republic to a 2\u20132 draw, and ICCD (International Committee of Silent Chess) also drew with Argentina. You can find all results, pairings, and standings after the first round on Chess-Results: s3.chess-results.com\/tnr1276749.aspx?lan=1&art=0&rd=1&SNode=S0 Side events in Astana In addition to the competition, today featured two important milestones for the global chess community. A Memorandum on Declaring 2026 the Year of Chess in Education was signed between FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich and President of the International School Chess Federation Timur Turlov, who also leads the Kazakhstan Chess Federation. Following the signing, Timur Turlov said: \u201cI hope that it will help a lot of kids to discover themselves better \u2013 to train their ability for strategic thinking, to keep concentration, to build clubs, and to make friends across the globe.\u201d FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich highlighted that this initiative aims to significantly expand chess participation among young people: \u201cOur goal is to double the number of children playing chess worldwide, and our partnership with the International School Chess Federation will help us make that a reality.\u201d Another memorandum was signed between Turkey, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan, establishing an Association of Turkic-Speaking Countries. This new initiative aims to bring the work of these nations closer together, strengthening cooperation in chess development and the organization of joint events. A celebration of unity and inclusion The first day of the 2nd FIDE Olympiad for People with Disabilities set the tone for a remarkable event \u2013 one that celebrates not only competitive excellence, but also the human values of inclusion, equality, and respect. The Paralympic Training Centre in Astana has become a home for players from all corners of the world, united by one timeless truth: chess is for everyone. Official website: dis-olympiad2025.fide.com\/<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":39441,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[15],"tags":[158,415],"regular":[],"sticky-post":[358],"class_list":["post-39437","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-chess-news","tag-chess-olympiad","tag-chessfordisabled","sticky-post-sticky"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.fide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/39437","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.fide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.fide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=39437"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/www.fide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/39437\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":39456,"href":"https:\/\/www.fide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/39437\/revisions\/39456"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/39441"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.fide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=39437"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=39437"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=39437"},{"taxonomy":"regular","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/regular?post=39437"},{"taxonomy":"sticky-post","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/sticky-post?post=39437"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}