Chess debuts at South American Youth Games
FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich visited Panama to take part in activities aimed at strengthening the role of chess in education and supporting its growth across Latin America. During the visit, he attended the 2026 South American Youth Games, a continental multi-sport event for young athletes. This is the first edition of the Games to include chess in the official program, providing new competitive opportunities for young players. FIDE President made the ceremonial first move and later participated in the awards ceremony. Alongside the Games, a seminar for school instructors was held, bringing together around 40 teachers from Panama. The seminar focused on modern methods of teaching chess in schools, equipping educators with practical tools to introduce the game to pupils and integrate it into the learning process. This initiative forms part of FIDE’s broader commitment to promoting chess as an educational tool worldwide. “Developing chess at the grassroots level is essential for the future of our sport. By introducing chess in schools, we not only nurture future champions but also equip children with valuable life skills. It is especially symbolic that 2026 has been designated as the Year of Chess in Education, reinforcing our global commitment to this mission,” said Dvorkovich. As part of the visit, he also met with Damaris Young Aranda, the President of the Panama Olympic Committee, Mario Moccia, First Vice President of ODESUR, and José Carrillo Pujol, President of the Confederation of Chess for America. The discussions explored future joint initiatives to further develop chess across Latin America. In recent years, the region has emerged as a dynamic hub for international chess, hosting major events such as the FIDE World Youth U16 Chess Olympiad in Colombia. Strengthening partnerships with continental organizations remains a strategic priority for FIDE as it continues to invest in the long-term, sustainable growth of the game.