For five days, Lima became the world’s chess capital. The Peruvian capital hosted the World Rapid and Blitz Championship, bringing together brightest young chess talents.
In an atmosphere of intensity and high expectations, the clock ticked as fast as the plays unfolded, demanding not only creativity from the players but also absolute composure under pressure. Many games were decided in mere minutes, offering spectators a mix of spectacle, drama, and brilliance.
The Peruvian audience responded with passion, filling the playing halls and proving that chess, in its most accelerated form, can be lived and celebrated with the energy of a true sporting event. Between draws, crushing victories, and heartbreaking defeats, Lima pulsed with the excitement of a discipline that allows no respite.
By the end of five intense days, it was clear that this World Championship not only crowned new champions but also established Peru as a prominent stage on the international chess calendar.
Below is the list of winners:
Girls – Rapid
- WGM Xeniya Balabayeva (KAZ) – 7
- WIM Afruza Khamdamova (UZB) – 6.5
- WFM Varvara Poliakova (FIDE) – 6.5
Open – Rapid
- IM Mukhammadzokhid (UZB) – 7.5
- GM Mukhiddin Madaminov (UZB) – 7
- GM Denis Lazavik (FIDE) – 7
Girls – Blitz
- IM Eline Roebers (NED) – 12/13
- WIM Umida Omonova (UZB) – 9.5
- WFM Aliaksandra Tarasenka (FIDE) – 9
Eline Roebers delivered a commanding performance, clinching the title with a round to spare. The IM from the Netherlands scored an impressive 12/13, conceding just two draws.
Open – Blitz
- GM Mukhiddin Madaminov (UZB) – 12/13
- GM Denis Lazavik (FIDE) – 11.5
- IM Mukhammadzokhid Suyarov (UZB) –10
The competition turned in an exciting race of GMs Mukhiddin Madaminov and Denis Lazavik. The runner-up of the Open – Rapid, Mamadinov seized the lead in Round 9 and preserved it to the end, finishing a half-point ahead of Lazavik.
Text and photos: Patricia Claros Aguilar
Official website: fidewj2025.com/