Chess for Humanity: Armenia and FIDE champion social change at UN Geneva side event
In a landmark celebration of chess as a catalyst for social transformation, the Permanent Mission of Armenia to the United Nations in Geneva, in partnership with the FIDE Social Commission and UNESCO, hosted a prestigious side event on 8 July at Hall XIV of the Palais des Nations, commemorating the upcoming International Chess Day 2026. The gathering transformed the historic UN venue into a vibrant hub of strategy and solidarity, showcasing the profound impact of chess far beyond the competitive arena. The event underscored the game’s unique capacity to bridge divides, empower marginalized communities, and foster cognitive and emotional resilience across the globe. The event was organized in close collaboration with a broad coalition of international and local partners, including the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG), UNESCO, the University for Peace, the International Chess Federation (FIDE), the Swiss Chess Federation, and the Geneva BOIS-GENTIL Chess Club. This diverse partnership reflected the shared commitment to advancing chess as a tool for diplomacy, inclusion, and social development. The proceedings opened with welcoming remarks from H.E. Tatiana Valovaya, Director-General of the United Nations Office in Geneva, followed by H.E. Hasmik Tolmajian, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Armenia to the UN Office in Geneva. Their addresses set the tone for an afternoon dedicated to highlighting chess as an instrument of inclusion and personal reinvention. André Vögtlin, President of the Swiss Chess Federation and Chairman of the FIDE Social Commission, delivered a powerful reflection on the global reach of social chess initiatives. His words resonated deeply with the diplomatic audience: “For centuries, this board has been the same: 64 squares, two colors, equal rules for both sides. No passport required. No language needed. No status. No history. Just the next move.” André Vögtlin detailed the Commission’s work across 60 countries, from the prisons of Malawi to the refugee camps of Kenya, from the youth centers of Mongolia to the correctional facilities of Chicago: “We have placed this board in front of people the world has largely given up on. And something remarkable happens. A man who has spent years reacting – impulsively, violently, without perspective – learns to pause. To think one move ahead. Then two. Then five. A child who has never been treated as an equal sits across from an instructor and, for the first time, the rules are the same for both of them. Fair. Transparent. Unchangeable. A woman in a refugee camp discovers that her mind – which no one has ever invested in – is capable of strategy, of beauty, of depth. This is what we call Social Chess.” The highlight of the afternoon was an exclusive simultaneous chess exhibition featuring Grandmaster Levon Aronian, one of the world’s most celebrated chess talents. The event attracted approximately 70 registered participants, bringing together diplomats and representatives of international organizations based in Geneva. During the exhibition, Grandmaster Aronian played simultaneously against 25 participants – marking the first time such a high-profile simul had been held in conjunction with this specific side event. The demonstration captivated attendees, illustrating the game’s universal appeal and its extraordinary power to unite people across all divides. At the conclusion of the exhibition, Levon Aronian selected five participants to receive commemorative trophies. His selections were based primarily on the quality of play demonstrated by amateur players who particularly impressed him. In a remarkable achievement, one participant succeeded in holding the Grandmaster to a draw – an outstanding feat that drew enthusiastic applause from the audience. The FIDE Social Commission had the distinct honour of presenting its flagship social chess projects to a diplomatic audience, detailing the successes of initiatives that are transforming lives worldwide: Chess for Freedom, presented by project leader and SOC Councilor Mikhail Korenman, which promotes rehabilitation and cognitive development in prison settings. Chess for Protection, supporting refugees and displaced populations, presented by André Vögtlin, Chair of SOC. Infinite Chess, empowering children with autism, presented by Jonathan Chen, project partner and supporter, Founder and President of the Kindness on Board Foundation. Chess for Hope, bringing the game to underserved communities, presented by Prabitha Urwyler, project leader and FIDE SOC Councilor. The event proved to be a significant opportunity to position Social Chess as a leading player on the world stage. The spirit of the gathering was exceptionally positive, with palpable interest from the diplomatic community in the transformative power of these initiatives. H.E. Hasmik Tolmajian not only delivered opening remarks but also played a key role in opening doors to other UN organizations and their sub-organizations. This integration is a crucial step in embedding Social Chess more deeply within the UN framework, paving the way for sustained institutional support. Buoyed by the success and high interest at this year’s event, the FIDE Social Commission is already planning for the future. The consensus, as articulated by André Vögtlin, is clear: “Next year, we must go further – we plan to make social chess the main topic of the event.” The Permanent Mission of Armenia remains committed to making this event an annual tradition and looks forward to welcoming participants again next year. The momentum built at the Palais des Nations has opened new avenues for the Commission to seek representation at future sessions of the UN Human Rights Council, ensuring that the transformative power of chess continues to gain recognition as a vital tool for social development and human dignity worldwide. Photos: © insta:agencypointofviews
Asian Rapid and Blitz Championships 2026: Registration deadline extended
The Asian Chess Federation is pleased to announce that the Asian Rapid & Blitz Chess Championships 2026 (Open & Women) will be held in Hong Kong, China, from July 27 to 31, 2026. The championships are organized by the Hong Kong China Chess Federation Limited (HKCCFL) with the support of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government. The event is open to players from all member federations of the Asian Chess Federation in FIDE Zones 3.1 to 3.8, with no limit on the number of participants each federation may enter. Tournament venue The championships will take place at the modern TWGHs TungPo Centre in San Po Kong, Kowloon, a multi-purpose venue offering excellent facilities and convenient access from all parts of Hong Kong. Format The championships will consist of two separate events: Rapid Championship – 11-round Swiss System Blitz Championship – 13-round Swiss System Time control Rapid: 15 minutes plus a 10-second increment from move one. Blitz: 3 minutes plus a 2-second increment from move one. The latest FIDE Laws of Chess and Asian Chess Federation regulations will apply. Prize fund The championships offer an attractive total prize fund of HKD 150,000 (approximately USD 19,150). Open section 1st Prize: Trophy + HKD 40,000 2nd Prize: Trophy + HKD 20,000 3rd Prize: Trophy + HKD 10,000 Women’s section 1st Prize: Trophy + HKD 20,000 2nd Prize: Trophy + HKD 10,000 3rd Prize: Trophy + HKD 5,000 Additional cash prizes will be awarded through 10th place in each section, together with special prizes for the best Hong Kong player and various rating categories. Schedule 27 July: Arrival of participants 28–29 July: Asian Rapid Chess Championship 30 July: Asian Blitz Chess Championship 31 July: Departure The Players’ Meeting will be held on July 28, at 13:30, followed immediately by the first five rounds of the Rapid Championship. Registration Registration is now open. Registration deadline: July 16, 2026 (12:00 PM) Late entries may be accepted subject to a HKD 400 late registration surcharge. Entry fees Grandmasters (GM), International Masters (IM), Women Grandmasters (WGM), and Women International Masters (WIM): Free entry Other FIDE-rated players: HKD 1,200 Accreditation fee for accompanying persons: HKD 200 Participants are advised to complete their registrations early and arrange accommodation well in advance due to the high demand for hotels in Hong Kong during the summer season. Official website Online registration and complete tournament information are available at: https://arbcc2026.chesstournament.org/ https://asianrbc2026.hkchessevent.com/ For further information, please contact the Organizing Committee at hkchessevent@gmail.com.
South Africa explores historic bid for first African Chess Olympiad
FIDE and South African officials have inspected a potential venue and discussed the possibility of Cape Town bidding for the 2032 Chess Olympiad. A FIDE delegation, led by President Arkady Dvorkovich, visited the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) as a possible venue for the event. They were joined by Andre Lewaks, President of Chess South Africa; Dr. Lyndon Bouah, Chief Director for Sport and Recreation in the province of the Western Cape; and Kevin Malam, Assistant Director at the Western Cape Government. The CTICC is being considered as a possible venue for what would be the first Chess Olympiad on African soil. Opened in 2003, the complex has a total floor space of 140,855 square meters and can accommodate up to 9,500 people. Its main auditorium can seat about 1,500 people. As one of Africa’s leading convention centers, CTICC has hosted many international conferences and events, including the 2010 FIFA World Cup final draw, the 2023 Netball World Cup (the first Netball World Cup hosted on the African continent), and the 2015 World Economic Forum on Africa. CTICC is part of Cape Town’s international positioning as a conference, exhibition, trade, diplomacy, and major events hub. Located in the Foreshore area, near hotels (more than 5,000 beds available), the V&A Waterfront, and transport links, it offers easy access for visitors and delegations. Its flexibility is also a major strength: it can host exhibitions, congresses, gala dinners, sporting events, political sittings, and multiple concurrent events across its two major halls. In April 2026, FIDE announced that Africa would be given priority to host the 2032 Chess Olympiad as part of a new principle of continental rotation for future Olympiads. “Being here on the continent, we can feel how important this is for the whole African chess community, for all chess players, for all national federations, for everyone who is involved here, for governments as well,” FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich said. FIDE is now reaching out to countries that could host future Chess Olympiads. “South Africa is a great location. I’m happy that we brought the World Schools Team Championship here. We could see first-hand how capable the local team is and the national federation. A modern venue, prestigious location, and the capacity of local organisers to host big international events are a great combination and we will take this into account when making the final decision,” Dvorkovich added. “We are very excited at the possibility of hosting the Chess Olympiad in Africa, and particularly in South Africa,” said Dr. Lyndon Bouah, Chief Director for Sport and Recreation in the province of the Western Cape. “Chess has been very important to us as a nation. In 2012 the national government took the decision for chess to be one of the priority codes of South Africa. Out of 83 possible codes, only 16 were chosen, and chess was one of them,” Dr. Bouah said. Cape Town is one of Africa’s most internationally recognisable cities and South Africa’s legislative capital. It has political importance, a strong services economy, and global tourism appeal. It is also an important international travel hub, with strong connections to other parts of the world. South Africa’s time zone also works well for a global chess audience. It aligns closely with most of Europe, home to one of the largest chess audiences in the world, making it easier for fans to follow games live. Cape Town also has a strong chess tradition. The first chess club in Africa was established there in 1885. Today, there are 38 chess clubs in the city, which are due to play in a league at the end of this month. The South African National Chess Championships have been held since 1892, making them the oldest national chess championships in Africa. Alongside Morocco, South Africa was also one of the first African nations to take part in the Chess Olympiad in Munich in 1958.
A new African push for chess in education
A fresh push to bring chess into classrooms across Africa took shape in Cape Town during the African Continental Stage of the FIDE ISCF World Schools Team Championship 2026.The African Continental Stage of the FIDE ISCF World Schools Team Championship 2026 currently takes place in Cape Town. What began as a school competition became a working forum for federations, education officials and chess leaders from the region. FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich and ISCF President Timur Turlov attended the event where meetings focused on teacher training, school leagues, national coordination and the role chess can play in giving more children access to structured learning opportunities. During the event, meetings were held with chess officials from several countries, including South Africa, Eswatini and Namibia. The key focus of the discussion was how chess can have a more prominent role in societies across the African continent. Chess as a tool for social development In South Africa, chess officials, national Olympic Committee representatives, and sports officials met with FIDE, highlighting the importance the country is giving to chess. Officials highlighted that Cape Town was the first place in Africa where a chess club was established, in 1885. During the discussions, chess was presented as a way to address social and educational inequalities in South Africa. Dr. Lyndon Bouah is the chief director for sport and recreation in the Western Cape pointed out official data showing chess has risen among the sports schools offer to their pupils. This has led to increased government funding, with the ambition to build a school chess league. Highlighting the important role chess can play in bringing communities together, FIDE and South African officials agreed to work more closely on providing support and staging more international events in the country. South Africa is also being considered as one of the regional centers for chess education and training, FIDE noted. During the meeting with representatives of Eswatini, FIDE and ISCF discussed an international framework that would help countries in Africa build connected national chess systems. FIDE emphasized the importance of better organisation of national federations and closer coordination between them, moving from ad hoc to structured, continuous projects. More structured support for African chess Representatives from Namibia were particularly interested on projects focused on training primary school teachers who could then teach chess to children. Namibia wants chess included across the national education system, with possible support from its strong e-education experience, where FIDE can offer considerate support. Namibia also expressed interest in holding an international chess event in Africa, noting that the country has the means and infrastructure to support that. “Education and chess go hand in hand. Here in South Africa we have seen the true spirit of this – with players, teachers, federation and state officials eagerly discussing how chess can be institutionalised in education systems across the continent to help bridge gaps between communities,” said ISCF President Timur Turlov. “FIDE has offered structured support, and we have laid foundation pillars that will lead to more support for chess across Africa, which means more players and more opportunities, which is our main goal,” FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich said. The discussions in Cape Town now give FIDE, ISCF and African federations a clearer route to turn chess in education from local initiatives into a coordinated continental programme.
Race tightens as Day 3 tests leaders in Stellenbosch
Day three of the African Continental Stage of the FIDE ISCF World Schools Team Championship 2026 brought rounds five and six to the Coetzenburg Center, pushing the tournament into its decisive phase. With only two rounds remaining after today’s play, every match carried greater weight. The leading teams were looking to protect their positions, while those close behind still had an opportunity to join the race for the title and qualification places. The championship’s wide-ranging programme reflects the support behind it. Freedom Holding Corp., the main sponsor of the African Continental Stage and General Partner of the International School Chess Federation, has helped create a week that combines serious competition with education, personal development, and opportunities for young players to connect beyond the board. Rounds 5 and 6 Round 5 narrowed the race at the top, with Kenya and Uganda both securing important victories. Kenya’s Moi Nyeri Complex Primary School produced the strongest result among the leading teams, defeating Madagascar’s Lycée Privé Hibiscus by 3½-½. Uganda’s Sr. Miriam Duggan Primary School also kept pace with a 3-1 victory over Zimbabwe’s Budiriro 4 Primary School. With Kenya and Uganda both moving to nine match points, the afternoon round was set to play a major role in potentially separating the leaders. In Round 6, Angola’s Instituto Industrial held Uganda to a 2-2 draw, and the shock of the day came on board one, where unrated Melquesideque Paulo defeated Ronald Wabwire, the highest-rated player in the field. Manuel Carlos added a second Angolan win against 1727-rated Trevor Tumukunde before Daniel Odokonyero and WCM Juliet Asaba rescued the match point for the top seeds. Kenya fared no better: Welgemoed’s AFM Wolf van der Merwe beat Davidson Waweru on board one, and though Trevor Waweru and Irwin Ndegwa kept up their form in the middle, both winning their games, Adiaan Vlok leveled the match at 2-2 on board four. Heading into the final day, Uganda and Kenya share the lead on 10 match points, with five teams closely behind them: Madagascar, Angola, Welgemoed, Holy Cross, and Namibia, all on eight. With two rounds to play, nothing is settled. Player spotlight: Ronald Wabwire At just 12 years old, Uganda’s Ronald Wabwire is already regarded as one of his country’s brightest young chess talents. Rated 2174 and competing on board one for Sr. Miriam Duggan Primary School, he entered the championship as its highest-rated player. Wabwire’s achievements include winning the Under-12 title at the 2026 African Youth Chess Championship with eight points. At the age of nine, he also recorded a perfect 7/7 score to win the 2023 Jumuiya Africa Mashariki Chess Championship. Despite the expectations surrounding him, Wabwire’s strongest impression of the week was not about ratings or results. Asked about his experience in Stellenbosch, he summed it up in one sentence: “This is the best event I have ever been to.” Team spotlight: Zimbabwe At the other end of the starting ranks sits one of the tournament’s best stories. Sengwa Primary School from rural Gokwe, in Zimbabwe’s Midlands Province, arrived in Stellenbosch as the 29th seed and as the only all-girls team in the field: Grade Seven pupils Vimbai Bhamu, Makanaka Chirefu, and Rebecca Siposo, and Grade Five learner Dorcas Gwariro. For several of them, the flight to Cape Town was their first time on an airplane, or in an airport at all. “I used to see other children leaving and returning with medals, and I told myself that I should also give it a try,” Siposo told Zimbabwe’s Herald before departure. Their journey carries weight back home. Days before the team left, Zimbabwe’s First Lady, Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa, whose support along with the ISCF helped secure the team’s place here, was appointed patron of the Zimbabwe Chess Federation juniors. “We promised the First Lady that we will show other nations that a girl can do it. It starts in Zimbabwe and spreads to others,” federation president Todd Mapingire said. The girls have taken that promise seriously: unfazed by the seeding, they have already collected match wins this week, including a 3-1 victory over Malawi’s Bwaila Secondary School in Round 5. Chirefu, who only started playing in 2024, put the bigger picture best: “Chess has helped me improve my mathematics because it has strengthened my problem-solving skills. When I come back, I want to teach other children.” Side events: Raising champions While the tournament continued at the boards, the educational programme returned to the Lectorium of Stellenbosch University. Dr. Denise Bouah presented a session titled “Raising Champions,” continuing the championship’s focus on the development of young players beyond their results. The programme has created space throughout the week for conversations about guidance, growth, and the role that parents, coaches, and communities play in helping children thrive. Breaking barriers through chess The final workshop of the day, “Breaking Barriers: Challenging Stereotypes Through Chess,” was held in collaboration with Teach The Nation and brought players, parents, coaches, captains, and supporters together in the playing hall. Through interactive activities and discussion, participants explored how experiences from the chessboard can support personal development beyond the game. The session looked at challenging stereotypes, building confidence and resilience, and strengthening communication between young players and the parents and coaches supporting them. Participants also reflected on the importance of teamwork and encouragement, as well as the character developed through both victories and defeats. The workshop encouraged those in attendance to view chess not only as a competition but as a way to build stronger relationships, meaningful connections, and skills that extend into everyday life. Away from the formal programme, the activity spaces were once again filled with players looking to relax after two demanding rounds. National and activity games took place in Activity Room 2, while Activity Room 1 hosted a handcraft masterclass. After six rounds of competition, these shared spaces have become an important part of the championship experience. They give players the chance to meet opponents from other countries, spend time with teammates, and enjoy the event without the pressure
Chess, concentration, and community: An interview with Timur Turlov
The FIDE ISCF World Schools Team Championship has grown rapidly since its pilot edition in Aktau in 2023, developing into a global cycle spanning four continents. During the African Continental Stage in Stellenbosch, South Africa, ISCF President Timur Turlov reflected on the championship’s expansion, the importance of school teams, and the broader role chess can play in education. He also discussed the recently launched Chess in Education grant programme and the value of chess in helping young people develop concentration, strategic thinking, and stronger decision-making skills in an increasingly fast-paced digital world. The World Schools Team Championship began with a pilot event in Aktau in 2023 and has now developed into a four-continent cycle. Did you imagine it growing this quickly? Timur Turlov: That was our dream: to build a great competition for schools. It has now become a reality, and I am very proud of what we have achieved together. One of the most striking aspects of the championship is the camaraderie among the teams. Why was it important to focus on school teams rather than individual players? What can a team format teach that individual chess cannot? I think it is very human to come together as a team. It is only as a community that we can build great things. All major institutions and enterprises are made up of teams of people. When you have a strong team, you can achieve great results, build something meaningful and create something special. That is why I believe it is important to develop communities. It is not only about having one outstanding individual. When the whole team, and even the whole school, is strong, it creates much greater opportunities for development. You can rely on your teammates, and together you can create something truly unique. Chess remains an individual game at the board, but we are seeing a great deal of teamwork and mutual support away from it. Have you noticed that during the championship? Absolutely. The event itself is a wonderful opportunity to make friends, discover new countries and find new opportunities. When you have a strong team, you know that you can rely on it. Even when you lose your own game, the team can still succeed because your teammates may win theirs. You can also help one another through advice, encouragement and your own performance. You do not have to rely only on yourself. You can rely on your teammates, and together you are much stronger than when you stand alone. FIDE has designated 2026 as the Year of Chess in Education. What is your vision for this initiative? Chess in schools is one of the most impactful educational initiatives, while remaining relatively affordable and accessible to almost everyone. It does not only help children play chess better. It can help them learn more effectively, improve their concentration, develop strategic thinking and navigate a rapidly changing digital world. You have spoken about the speed of modern life and the constant presence of phones and digital content. Can chess help children slow down and think more carefully? Absolutely. I truly believe chess is a way to understand more clearly how you think, what influences your decisions and how you can improve the quality of your decision-making. It also trains the ability to concentrate for long periods of time. In today’s world, I think chess is one of the few enjoyable ways for young people to develop that level of focus. ISCF recently launched its Chess in Education grant programme. What is the idea behind it? We know how impactful chess in education can be. Through these grants, we can help create more equal access to development and give more countries the opportunity to experience its benefits. Sometimes, we simply need to provide an example and help a programme take its first steps. I am confident that these projects can become sustainable and continue under the leadership of national federations even after the initial grant period has ended, because they will see the impact for themselves. As President of the ISCF, what are you most proud of achieving? I am proud that we have brought together such a large and dedicated organising team. We work closely with FIDE and many national federations, and we have built a strong network of people who support this initiative. The programme has also received support from government representatives, and thousands of young players from countries around the world are already taking part. That growing community is something we can all be proud of. Photos: Arlan Olzhabai
Baby Shark, big upsets, and three-way lead in Stellenbosch
On day two of the African Continental Stage of the FIDE ISCF World Schools Team Championship 2026 Rounds 3 and 4 were played at the Coetzenburg Center in Stellenbosch, reshaping the top of the standings. The event is supported by Freedom Holding Corp., the main sponsor of the African Continental Stage and General Partner of the International School Chess Federation. Its continued commitment helps make both the competition and the wider educational and cultural programme possible. The two remaining teams with perfect scores, Uganda and Kenya, met in the fourth round and drew. By the end of the day, three teams shared the lead, although the mood inside the playing hall remained anything but heavy. Energetic music greeted the players as they streamed into the venue, setting the tone for the day. Then, just before round three, Chief Arbiter Gunther van den Bergh made an unusual announcement: he asked everyone to rise for an anthem. The students stood, exchanging confused looks, before the opening notes of Baby Shark rang out across the hall. Laughter erupted, and the arbiters joined the children in performing the familiar dance moves. Speaking as the round got underway, Van den Bergh, whose idea it was, explained that he knew how tense the opening minutes of a game could feel and wanted to help the players relax and settle in. He was onto something – when several young players were interviewed before the round and asked how they felt ahead of their games, the most common answer was “nervous”. Watching those same faces laughing and dancing only minutes before the clocks started was a sight to see. Rounds 3 and 4 Round 3 saw the first clash between teams with perfect scores, and top-seeded Uganda made a statement. Sr. Miriam Duggan Primary School swept Namibia’s Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool 4-0, while fourth-seeded Kenya, represented by Moi Nyeri Complex Primary School, convincingly defeated Ghana’s Delhi Public School 3½-½. The results left Uganda and Kenya as the only two teams with a perfect six match points, setting up a round-four showdown at the top of the table. The encounter lived up to the billing. Kenya and Uganda traded blows across all four boards before finishing level at 2-2. Uganda’s highest-rated players delivered on the outside boards, with Ronald Wabwire (2174) winning on board one and WCM Juliet Asaba (1985) prevailing on board four. Kenya’s middle order, however, struck back with two major upsets. Trevor Waweru (1478) beat Trevor Tumukunde (1727) in the battle of the Trevors, while Irwin Ndegwa (1474) took down Daniel Odokonyero (1944). The draw opened the door at the top of the standings, and Madagascar’s Lycée Privé Hibiscus stepped straight through it, defeating Angola’s Instituto Industrial 3-1 to join Uganda and Kenya in the lead on seven match points. Standings after Round 4 A simul with a twist The side programme delivered one of its most anticipated events in the evening: a simultaneous exhibition by International Master Henry Robert Steel at the Lectorium of Stellenbosch University. The format came with an unusual twist. While Steel faced his opponents in the traditional one-against-many setup, one board was played collectively by the audience. Spectators voted on each move, with the majority decision then played on the board. Before the simul, the Lectorium hosted a masterclass by a man whose story many of the players already knew, even if they did not know his name. Robert Katende, founder of the SOM Chess Academy in the Ugandan slum of Katwe, is the coach whose mentorship of Phiona Mutesi inspired the film Queen of Katwe. His talk, “Chess as a Tool for Life Development”, drew directly on that journey. Katende spoke about chess as a way of teaching children to plan, recover from setbacks, and believe that their circumstances do not determine their future. It was a message that could hardly have found a more fitting audience than the young players at this championship, several of whom come from the very programmes his work helped inspire. Away from the Lectorium, the entertainment zone maintained its now-familiar buzz. PS5 consoles, air hockey, foosball, table tennis, cornhole, giant chess, and giant Jenga ran from late afternoon alongside badge-making and the national and activity games in Activity Room 2. For many of the players, the hours after the rounds have quickly become as much a part of the championship experience as the games themselves. Rounds 5 and 6 take place tomorrow, July 9, with the competition and pressure getting tougher as the end draws nearer. Written by Charlize van Zyl Photos: ISCF
First moves in Stellenbosch: African Continental Stage of the World Schools Team Championship 2026 begins
The African Continental Stage of the FIDE ISCF World Schools Team Championship 2026 officially got underway today at the Coetzenburg Center in Stellenbosch, South Africa, marking the first time the event has been held on African soil. The second qualifying stage of the 2026 cycle, following the Asian Continental Stage in Almaty this April, brings together 26 school teams from 22 countries, all competing for a place in the Grand Final at the end of the year. Held during the Year of Chess in Education, with the support of Freedom Holding Corp., the championship places as much emphasis on what chess teaches as on who wins. Speaking on the sidelines of the event, FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich reflected on how the cycle has grown: “When we started the World Schools Team Championships a couple of years ago, we were experimenting a bit, thinking how to do it in a proper way to involve more and more schools, more and more countries. Now we are confident that in the end we’ll have more than 100 countries competing, which is exciting. And it’s going to be five different countries, five different hosts, so that improves the capacity of local federations to move chess forward.” Format Each team fields four main players and one reserve, with both boys and girls represented. At the top of the starting rankings is Uganda’s Sr. Miriam Duggan Primary School, followed by Nigeria’s Platform School in second place and Tunisia’s representatives in third. The host country, South Africa, is represented by three schools, led by Welgemoed Primary School. The team aspect of the event has shown a true camaraderie from the players, each supporting their own. ISCF President Timur Turlov remarked on the benefits of this format: “I think it’s very human to team up, and only as a community can we build some great things. All the big institutions, all the big enterprises, are always teams of people. And if you have a strong team, that usually means that you can achieve very great results, build something really great, and create something very special. That’s why I think it’s important to develop communities. If not just one person is great, if the whole team is great, if the whole school is great, that creates much better opportunities for development. Because you can rely on your team players, and altogether you can create something really unique.” The tournament follows an eight-round Swiss system, with two rounds played each day and a time control of 45 minutes plus a 10-second increment per move from move one. The short-classical format produced plenty of quick finishes, although in both rounds several games continued deep into the session as players made full use of their time. Notably, the majority of the participants, 91 of them to be exact, are unrated and competing on an international stage for the first time in their lives. That may sound like a lot of pressure, but the atmosphere remained lively throughout the day, and the students appeared eager to return for their next game. Here is a closer look at the day’s activities. An opening ceremony with a difference The tournament opened at 10:00 with a ceremony that “set protocol aside.” Following introductory remarks, the South African national anthem, and the FIDE anthem, FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich, ISCF President Timur Turlov, African Chess Confederation President Tshepiso Lopang, and Chess South Africa President Andre Lewaks took the stage, but not to deliver speeches. Instead, each official read letters written by young players at the previous stages in Almaty and Washington, answering one question: “What would you say to your fellow players if you were standing on the opening ceremony stage?” Their words about mistakes and victories, friendship without borders, dreams, and a big and open world captured the spirit of the championship better than any formal speech could. The heartfelt messages captivated the audience. Here are some of the most memorable answers: “If you lose, it is okay to feel sad for a little while. But not for too long. Then it is better to look through the game and pretend that learning something was your plan all along.” “Don’t be afraid if you and your opponent don’t speak the same language. In chess, you can understand each other without words – after the first move!” “May each of you have a big chess dream. For example, to become a world champion. Make smart moves! In the game and … in life too!” “I hope that at this championship you look not only at the board but also around you. Because the world is truly big, and it is wonderful to see it while playing.” Following a group photo under the event’s motto, WE LOVE CHESS, and a dance performance by the Stars of Tomorrow group, President Arkady Dvorkovich officially declared the African Continental Stage open. The ceremony also recognised the essential support of the Freedom Group of companies, whose partnership made the event possible and continues to strengthen chess education and development programmes worldwide. The ceremony set the tone for the day of chess ahead, with smiles and good spirits all around. The players then made their way to the boards for the first round, which began at 11:30. First moves were made by young chess stars – Sophia Smith (8 years old), representing Beaumont Primary School, and Theeran Varadharajan (4 years old), from Alex Blaikie Montessori School. Rounds 1 and 2 The first round produced no major upsets, although several matches ended in draws. There were also a few 4-0 clean sweeps, always an ideal way to begin a team event. Round two followed a similar pattern, although more matches were closely contested. Four teams ended the day with victories in both rounds, and the competition is expected to intensify tomorrow as more evenly matched teams face one another. It should also be noted that the early standings may not yet provide a true indication of strength, given the large number of unrated players
Iivo Nei (1931-2026)
The chess world mourns the passing of Estonian Honorary Grandmaster Iivo Nei, who passed away at the age of 94. Born on 31 October 1931 in Tartu, Estonia, Nei enjoyed an illustrious chess career spanning over eight decades. Showing early promise, he recorded his first notable result in 1948, tying for first place at the Soviet Union Junior Championship. An eight-time Estonian Champion (1951, 1952, 1956, 1960–1962, 1971, and 1974), Nei won the Baltic Republics Championships in 1961 (Palanga), 1962 (Tartu), 1963 (Estonia), and 1964 (Pärnu). He also competed in the prestigious Soviet Championships on four occasions. At the peak of his career, Nei achieved the International Master title in 1964. That same year, he tied for first with Paul Keres at the Hoogovens tournament in Beverwijk (later known as Corus, and now Tata Steel), finishing ahead of Lajos Portisch, Borislav Ivkov, Bent Larsen, and Bruno Parma. He later secured solid results in Beverwijk 1966 (5th), Zinnowitz 1966 (4th–6th), and Tallinn 1969 (2nd–3rd). In recognition of his consistently strong results from the 1950s through the 1970s, the FIDE Council awarded Nei the title of Honorary Grandmaster in February 2024. Nei’s legacy extends far beyond his own playing achievements. He served as a highly productive trainer for Women’s World Champions Nona Gaprindashvili and Maia Chiburdanidze, and most notably, he was one of Boris Spassky’s seconds in the legendary 1972 World Championship match against Bobby Fischer in Reykjavik. He co-authored the seminal book Both Sides of the Chessboard with American Grandmaster Robert Byrne, offering an unparalleled, intimate perspective on the drama and tension of the 1972 match. For over 25 years, Nei was one of the leading chess coaches in Estonia, mentoring generations of strong players. He also served for many years as the FIDE Representative for Zone 1.7 (Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania). Through his writing, commentary, and role as a trainer, Iivo Nei acted as a vital bridge between the Soviet chess school and the rest of the world. Even during the height of the Cold War, his collaborations with Western players and journalists helped foster mutual respect across the Iron Curtain. FIDE, alongside the global chess community, extends its deepest condolences to Iivo Nei’s family, his friends, and the Estonian Chess Federation. Photo: Vallo Kruuser | Delfi Meedia
Deise Pereira retains title of Cabo Verde Women’s National Chess Champion
Deise Pereira has retained her title as Cape Verde’s Women’s National Chess Champion, winning the 2026 edition of the National Championship held in the city of Mindelo from July 2 to 5. The champion mathematically secured the victory in the penultimate round by defeating three-time national champion Célia Rodriguez Guevara, who won the 2022, 2023, and 2024 editions. Célia, who was unable to defend her title in 2025, ultimately fell short in her attempt to reclaim the national crown. Deise Pereira delivered an excellent performance throughout the competition, finishing undefeated with a record of six wins and one draw, which was conceded only in the final round. With this performance, she totaled 6.5 out of a possible 7 points, confirming her supremacy in national women’s chess. Célia Rodriguez Guevara finished as runner-up with 6 points, while the third place on the podium went to newcomer Crisele Neves, who put up a strong showing earning 4 points. One of the most notable aspects of this edition was the strong presence of the new generation of Cabo Verdean women’s chess. Of the eight participants in the tournament, only the top two finishers were outside of the youth age bracket, while the remaining six players were between 13 and 16 years old – a promising indicator for the future of the sport in the country. With this victory, Deise Pereira reinforces her status as one of the leading figures in Cabo Verdean women’s chess, in a tournament marked by high competitiveness and the emergence of young talent. Text and photos: Federação Cabo-verdiana de Xadrez