Diplomacy meets chess at Palais des Nations in Geneva
On July 3, 2025, history was made at Geneva’s iconic Palais des Nations. The Permanent Mission of Armenia to the United Nations, in collaboration with the Bois Gentil Chess Club and the Swiss Chess Federation, hosted the inaugural Tigran Petrosyan Memorial Tournament. Its mission? To celebrate International Chess Day by bringing together diplomacy and the royal game. A truly global audience Representatives from various permanent missions to the UN answered the call. A total of 32 chess players from around the world competed in a thrilling blitz tournament across 16 boards, while an audience of about 60 guests watched the action unfold. High-profile opening ceremony The event opened with welcoming speeches from: Tatiana Valovaya, Director-General of UNOG Hasmik Tolmajian, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Armenia André Vögtlin, President of the Swiss Chess Federation and Chair of the FIDE Social Commission Their remarks set the tone for a truly international celebration. Fast-paced blitz tournament Following a briefing from referee Igor Kupalov, a high-speed seven-round blitz tournament (5+0) began at 2:15 p.m. Each round delivered adrenaline and excitement as the competition intensified and top finishers began to emerge. Chess as a bridge between cultures In parallel with the tournament, guests enjoyed a special traveling exhibition. The event powerfully showcased how chess transcends borders, uniting people regardless of background or politics — a compelling example of soft diplomacy in action. Victory for Burgdorff In the end, Johannes Kuehn of Burgdorff (1751 Elo), representing the Mission of the Order of Malta, claimed the title with 6 points. GM Rolando Kutirov (2253 Elo) from the Mission of North Macedonia scored an equal amount of points but had to settle for silver due to inferior Buchholz, while WFM Greisy Cordero Suárez (2082 Elo) of the Cuban Mission secured bronze. United Nations Chess Tournament – Final standings Honoring the champions During the awards ceremony, David Fernandez Puyana (UN University for Peace), André Vögtlin, and Ambassador Hasmik Tolmajian presented medals and trophies to the winners. Ambassador Tolmajian then delivered a heartfelt closing speech, thanking the players and guests. A chess celebration to remember The first Tigran Petrosyan Memorial Tournament at the Palais des Nations was a resounding success. Chess and diplomacy walked hand in hand — setting a shining example of international friendship and cultural exchange. We’re already looking forward to the next edition!
FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich opens 2025 Women’s World Cup
Players, guests and accompanying persons enjoyed a wonderful gala of traditional music and dance, backed by a screening of historical images of Georgian women’s chess. Beautified by a magnificent crystal chandelier, the 600-seat Batumi Drama Theatre hosted this evening the opening ceremony of the 2025 FIDE Women’s World Cup, with the prominent presence of FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich. Together with the other main authorities and guests, most of the 107 players from 46 countries who will compete in the third edition of this tournament, enjoyed a relaxing evening of music and dance before the battle commences tomorrow on the chess board. At 19.30 local time sharp, under the deep and resonant sound of the gong, on the closed curtain of the theatre, the title of the tournament suddenly appeared: “FIDE Women’s’ World Cup Batumi 2025“. At the same time, the host’s voice could be heard, loud and clear, first in Georgian and then in English – “Ladies and gentlemen, we are beginning the official opening ceremony of the FIDE Women’s World Cup!”. A projection of the Georgian flag appeared on the curtain, and the Georgian national anthem was played, followed by the FIDE Anthem.” The orchestra played their first piece – “I used to rule the world” by Coldplay, followed by the “Khorumi” – a traditional Georgian war dance. The dancers performing the Khorumibrought out the flags – Georgian flag, the FIDE flag and the flag of Adjara. The presenter hosts welcomed the guests and affirmed that the prestigious event is organized by the International Chess Federation (FIDE) and the Georgian Chess Federation, with the generous support of the Ministry of Sport of Georgia, the Government of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara, the Batumi City Hall, the Ministry of Health of Adjara, and the Department of Tourism and Resorts of Adjara. They stated that the FIDE Women’s World Cup stands as one of the most significant and prestigious competitions on the global chess calendar, uniting the world’s strongest and most accomplished female chess players under one roof, and for Georgia it is a profound honor to host an event of such scale and prestige, reaffirming Georgia’s outstanding contribution to the global advancement and promotion of chess, and underscoring the country’s esteemed position within the international chess community. Akaki Iashvili, President of the Georgian Chess Federation and Special Tasks Director of the FIDE Management Board, took the stage and welcomed everyone on behalf of the Georgian Chess Federation. He extended a special and heartfelt greeting to Arkady Dvorkovich, President of FIDE and a true friend of Georgia, who had arrived in Batumi a few days before and awarded the winners of the U-8-U12 World Cup. Akaki also warmly acknowledged the presence of Mahir Mammedov, Vice President of FIDE. His speech was delivered with passion and determination – “It is a matter of great pride that Georgia is hosting the FIDE Women’s World Cup for the very first time. We are equally proud that seven Georgian players are competing in this elite field, representing our country with distinction. Between 1962 and 1991, Nona Gaprindashvili and Maia Chiburdanidzeheld the title of Women’s World Champion. In the decades since, Georgia has hosted numerous high-level FIDE and European tournaments, including the 2018 Chess Olympiad, and has developed extensive experience in organizing international competitions of the highest standard.We are fully committed to ensuring that all participants have the best possible environment to compete, excel, and enjoy their time in Georgia.” Akaki Iashvili also thanked all the supporters of the event – “On behalf of the Georgian Chess Federation, I would like to express our sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Sport of Georgia, the Government of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara, and the Batumi City Hall for their invaluable support in making this event possible. I wish all participants an inspiring tournament and every success — both on and off the chessboard.” Amidst a round of applause, Akaki Iashvili invited FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich to the stage. True to his style, FIDE President was brief and to the point, with his singular sense of humour. First, he expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of Culture of Adjara, the development company Horizons Group, and the Batumi State Drama Theatre for supporting the opening ceremony. He continued: “It’s good to be back. I was performing my first tasks as FIDE President in the Batumi 2018 Olympiad, and hopefully it won’t be the last time I am here! Batumi is one of the best places to organise a World Cup and I am glad that we have put our trust in the Georgian Chess Federation. You will all experience the traditional hospitality of the organizing team, the best playing conditions, and continue the tradition of the Georgian chess school and all the women champions”. Arkady Dvorkovich concluded: “It won’t be easy, there is tough competition, but I trust that you will be role models for all the young girls who try to do their best. We need you to show your enjoyment for playing chess, so that the younger kids who won the medals last week can improve and have fun, and maybe in the long run take your places. That would be a success story.” FIDE Vice President Mahir Mammedov joined Chief Arbiter Mahdi Abdulrahim on the stage for the drawing of lots, to decide which colour would lead on board one. Two bottles of Georgian wine, red and white, defined that the players with the odd number will have Black in the first game of round one. After the speeches, the audience enjoyed a display of the very best Georgian music and dance performances. Firstly, the renowned and century-old State Ensemble of Song and Dance of Adjara – Arsiani, joined by Luka Chanisvhili, performed a traditional Georgian folk song. Next, the exceptional voice of Georgia, Archil Gogitidze, performed a “My way”, accompanied by the Georgian Women’s Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Davit Mazanashvili. During these beautiful performances, the audience saw inspiring footage from Georgia’s chess history, from the
Join FIDE’s “Chess for recovery” sessions
As part of the FIDE Year of Social Chess, FIDE Social Commission is excited to welcome you to July – The Month of Recovery, featuring a unique International Master Class Series you won’t want to miss. Why Recovery? Chess is more than a game—it’s a tool for healing, growth, and rebuilding. Throughout July, we’re sharing inspiring stories and best practices that show how chess can support recovery from addiction, cognitive challenges, and serious illness. Where? Online via Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85143492687?pwd=hc2xHGRXYnlEiMP6CCOghcCXyqk9u9.1 (Meeting ID: 851 4349 2687, Passcode: 930160) Duration: 45 minutes each (20-minute talk + 20-minute Q&A) Language: English (but feel free to ask questions in Spanish, Italian, or Portuguese!) Meet our hosts: Juan Antonio Montero & Rodrigo BarbeitoFrom Club de Ajedrez Magic Extremadura (Spain)For over 15 years, this pioneering team has used chess as a tool for psychological recovery and social reintegration. Their work supports individuals in addiction recovery, prisons, senior communities, and people with disabilities—bringing dignity, connection, and transformation through the 64 squares. Recovery series schedule: 6 July | 18:00 CEST – Chess & Addiction Recovery 11 July | 18:00 CEST – Cognitive Impairment & Chess 19 July | 18:00 CEST – Cancer Recovery & the Chessboard 27 July | 18:00 CEST – Down’s Syndrome & Inclusive Chess Special author session: A Wizard’s Guide to Family Recovery 25 July | 18:00 CETJoin us for a powerful conversation with Lance Wilson, author and mental health advocate. Lance will share how chess became a source of strength and meaning during his personal journey—and how it helped shape his book’s message of hope and healing. Key topics: How chess supported his recovery from trauma Key takeaways from his book, grounded in lived experience How the game can guide us through life’s toughest moments Whether you’re a coach, therapist, educator, or simply curious, these sessions offer new tools, powerful stories, and renewed hope. We look forward to welcoming you! FIDE Social Commission
Winners crowned at FIDE World Cup Under 8, 10 and 12
The FIDE World Cup for Under 8, 10, and 12 categories in Batumi has come to a close. After nine days of intense battles over the chessboard, champions emerged in all six sections. Open U-8 1st place: Omer Taha Dede (Türkiye)2nd place: Mikhail Ev. Markov (FIDE)3rd place: Adinur Adilbek (Kazakhstan) Girls U-8 1st place: Alisha Bissaliyeva (Kazakhstan)2nd place: Varvara Volkova (FIDE)3rd place: Tharshan Kajishana (Sri Lanka) Open U-10 1st place: Sarbartho Mani (India)2nd place: Mondal Oishik (India)3rd place: Kapil Aarit (India) Girls U-10 1st place: Brijesh Divi (India)2nd place: Zhihan Chen (China)3rd place: Sharvaanica A S (India) Open U-12 1st place: Abdalrahman Sameh Mohamed (Egypt)2nd place: Chenxuan Ling (USA)3rd place: Damir Bulgak (FIDE) Girls U-12 1st place: Pratitee Bordoloi (India)2nd place: Dowda Aadya (India)3rd place: Ider Tselmuun (Mongolia) The closing ceremony, attended by FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich, FIDE Director of Special Tasks and President of the Georgian Chess Federation Akaki Iashvili, and other distinguished guests, was filled with a warm atmosphere of joy, celebration, and heartfelt farewells. It opened with the official FIDE anthem, followed by a performance of the Georgian national anthem by a children’s ensemble. The winners received their well-deserved awards, and all participants were recognized for their dedication, effort, and passion for chess. “It is wonderful that a top chess event, the FIDE World Cup Under 12, returned to Batumi, Georgia. Thanks to the Georgian Chess Federation and its President Akaki Iashvili, this competition was a great success. I would like to thank everyone involved—the officials, media team, technicians, and volunteers who worked on site. And of course, our special thanks go to the parents. This is your success as well. You helped your kids achieve what they did here. Thank you for supporting them and making them happy,” said FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich. A special lottery was also held during the ceremony, with all participants automatically entered. FIDE President Dvorkovich personally drew the winner’s name—one lucky participant received a brand-new iPhone 16 Pro Max as a special prize from the organizers. Photos: Georgian Chess Federation Official website: wcc2025.fide.com
FIDE World Amateur Championships 2025: Registration now open
All FIDE Member Federations and eligible players are invited to participate in the FIDE World Amateur Chess Championships 2025 for men and women with a FIDE rating under 2300. The competition will take place in Vrnjacka Banja, Serbia, from November 4 to 14, 2025. The Championships are open to players registered by their national federations. FIDE Member Federations have the right to send the unlimited number of players. There will be separate Championships for Open and Women in the FIDE rating categories of Under 2300, Under 2000, and Under 1700. Separate Women’s Championships will be held if there are at least ten registered players from at least two continents in each category. The Championships are nine-round Swiss tournaments with a time control of 90 minutes for the entire game, plus a 30-second increment for each move played, starting from the first move. The registration deadline for all players, accompanying persons, and delegation members is October 10, 2025. Participants who need to apply for a Serbian visa should request the invitation letter by September 5, 2025. Official website (coming soon): worldamateur2025.fide.com Email: worldamateur@fide.com Invitation letter, schedule and regulations (PDF)
FIDE World Cup Under 8-12: Day 9 recap
Although June 30 was officially a rest day, the organizers took the opportunity to engage the children in a productive chess activity. A special event, the “World Cup in Chess Solving” for participants aged 8–12, was held, where they tackled a series of chess compositions. The event was officiated by International Arbiter in Chess Composition Davit Gurgenidze, who served as the Chief Arbiter of the Championship. Additionally, a blitz tournament—the Nesis Cup 2025 for coaches from official delegations—was organized, along with ten specially invited players (five selected by the organizer and five by the Georgian Chess Federation). This nine-round Swiss system competition concluded with an awards ceremony led by IA Gennady Nesis. On July 1, regular play resumed at 13:00 CET. All games are broadcast live, with strict anti-cheating measures in place. Every player undergoes thorough screening before entering the playing hall. List of players who will face each other in the second round of the battle for prize places: Open 8Dede, Omer Taha and Markov, Mikhail Ev.Adilbek, Adinur and Kalinin, Bogdan Girls 8Bissaliyeva, Alisha and Volkova, VarvaraKajishana, Tharshan and Srinikhila, Yadavili Open 10Oishik, Mondal and Mani, SarbarthoNabiyev, Iman and Aarti, Kapil Girls 10Divi, Brijesh and Chen, ZhihanVolkova, Nadezhda Vlad. and Sharvaanica, A S Open 12Ling, Chenxuan and Sameh Mohamed, AbdalrahmanGuo, Ethan and Bulgak, Damir Girls 12Pratitee, Bordoloi and Aadya ,DowdaTselmuun, Idea and Rusitashvili, Tea Pairings of the 2nd round: chess-results.com/tnr1209238.aspx?lan=1&art=2&rd=2&flag=30 Live broadcast: chess.com/events/2025-fide-youth-world-cup-g8a/games Official website: wcc2025.fide.com/
FIDE World Cadet Chess Championships 2025: Registration deadline extended
The organizing committee of the FIDE World Cadet Chess Championships U8, U10, and U12 has announced the extension of the registration deadline to July 13, 2025. The competitions will take place from September 18 (arrival) to October 01, 2025 (departure) in Almaty, Kazakhstan. National Federations can register one official player in each category: under 8, 10, and 12 (Open and Girls). The total of six official players and one head of delegation with a valid FIDE ID from the National Federation are invited by the Organizers. All players must not have reached the age of 8, 10 or 12 in their respective categories before January 1, 2025. Personal rights also are granted to the top 3 players in each category of the last World Cadet Championships (2024), the Continental Cadet Champions of 2024 (1st ranked) and the players placed 1-3 in the 2025 FIDE World Cup for youngsters. National federation may register additional players and accompanying persons and being responsible for all related costs. As part of the event, the World Cadet Chess Solving Championship will be held on September 25, across the same six age and gender categories as the over-the-board competitions. For inquiries, please contact: worldcadet@fide.com The invitation letter with all the details can be found here:calendar.fide.com/event_files/3266/WCCC_2025_Invitation.pdf
Smart Moves Summit 2025: Where chess meets learning
From August 4–5, Alexandria (Washington D.C. area) will host a unique international summit exploring how chess can support cognitive growth, inclusion, and innovation in education. The conference aims to open a dialogue between schools, researchers, EdTech innovators and chess federations on the role chess can play in education and the cognitive development of children. By showcasing research-backed approaches to integrating chess into early and primary education, the conference will challenge conventional thinking about education and development. Organised by the International School Chess Federation in partnership with FIDE, the pioneering international conference brings together leading voices from education ministries, federations, schools, and EdTech – including representatives from more than 20 countries. Speakers include renowned chess educator and journalist Leontxo Garcia, psychologist and chess education expert Jose Francisco Suarez, and John Foley, Director of ChessPlus which creates strategy games for education. “Chess is more than a board game – it’s a powerful educational platform that develops critical thinking, strategical planning and problem-solving skills, which are all essential for the 21st century,” said Dana Reizniece, Deputy Chair of the FIDE Management Board. “We are looking forward to this conference as it will not only bring many of the top experts in the area together to present their research, but it will also be an opportunity to discuss, debate and exchange views and open spaces for new opportunities for chess in education and vice versa,” Reizniece added. What to expect from the event The two-day summit will feature 15 distinct topics, with keynote speakers and presentations focusing on the role of chess in education. On the first day, the conference will focus on the role of chess in early childhood education integration, as well as on the role of strategic leadership in global chess education, and how leveraging technology can create more inclusive learning environments. The first day will also include events on the connection between chess and maths as well as the links between chess and strategy games. One of the panels is dedicated to creating policies aimed at getting more public partnerships for chess programmes. Day two will expand into broader impact areas, exploring commercial opportunities for chess school programs, from marketing to business development. The conference will conclude with a Masterclass by Kenneth Regan, American professor, statistician, and computer scientist. Registration and information The Smart Moves Summit 2025 is aimed at professionals working in the fields of education, educational development and strategy, as well as chess and EdTech tools. The conference will be held at the Episcopal High School 1200 N Quaker Ln, Alexandria, VA 22302. Full programme details and registration information are available at worldschoolteam2025.fide.com/summit/. About the organisers The International School Chess Federation (ISCF) is dedicated to the global promotion and integration of chess within the educational system globally. Launched in September 2024, the ISCF operates as an affiliated body of the International Chess Federation (FIDE). The International Chess Federation (FIDE) is the governing body of the sport of chess, and it regulates all international chess competitions. FIDE was recognised by the International Olympic Committee as a Global Sporting Organization in 1999. Headquartered in Lausanne, FIDE was initially founded in 1924 in Paris under the motto “Gens una Sumus” (Latin for “We are one Family”). It was one of the very first International Sports Federations, alongside the governing bodies of Football, Cricket, Swimming, and Auto Racing. It is now one of the largest, encompassing 201 countries as affiliate members, in the form of National Chess Federations.
FIDE extends sanction against GM Christopher Yoo worldwide
The FIDE Ethics and Disciplinary Commission (EDC) Appeal Chamber has rendered its final decision in Case 05/2025(A), extending the disciplinary sanction imposed by the United States Chess Federation (USCF) against GM Christopher Yoo to a worldwide level. Following a request from the USCF, FIDE has determined that the one-year suspension issued by the USCF – effective from November 15, 2024, to November 14, 2025 – shall now apply globally. During this period, GM Yoo is barred from participating in any FIDE-rated events. This follows a disciplinary process arising from an incident at the US Chess Championship, where GM Yoo physically assaulted a member of the broadcast team. The EDC Appeal Chamber concluded that the USCF’s investigation and sanction were conducted fairly and in line with due process. In addition, GM Yoo will be subject to a five-year probation period through November 14, 2030. Any similar misconduct during this time may lead to further disciplinary action. The full decision can be found here: ethics.fide.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Case_05_2025A_decision_final.pdf
FIDE Women’s World Cup: Everything you need to know!
Batumi will host the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025 from the 5th to the 29th of July. Chess legends, seasoned professionals and emerging talents will play for the $50.000 first prize, in addition to three qualifying spots for the Candidates. Starting next Saturday, July 5th, the 2022 best “secret” European destination and the second most important city in Georgia, will be the venue of the new edition of the FIDE Women’s World Cup, one of the most important tournaments on the international chess calendar. Georgia has a rich history and strong tradition in women’s chess, producing legendary players and consistently achieving high-level results. Home to chess legends like Nona Gaprindashvili, the first woman to be awarded the title of Grandmaster, and Maia Chiburdanidze, who became the youngest Women’s World Champion at the time, Georgia has a proud tradition of women excelling in the game, with a strong national team and international success. Known among many other things for its beautiful Black Sea coastline, Batumi, host of the 2018 Chess Olympiad, will gather the world’s top female chess players in a battle for glory. As FIDE CEO Emil Sutovsky noted, “The Georgian Chess Federation doesn’t just talk about supporting women’s chess – they deliver, time and again. By bringing the FIDE Women’s World Cup to Batumi, they once again demonstrate their deep commitment at the highest level. We are happy to continue this strong cooperation and grateful for their unwavering dedication to our sport.” Located just 3km from the airport, the five-star Grand Bellagio Convention & Casino Hotel will host the competition. The venue is already operating with full force and activity – more than 300 players from nearly 40 countries are currently contesting the FIDE World Cup U-8, U-10, U-12! Structure and prizes: what are they playing for? As if the total prize fund of $691,250 USD, with $50,000 going to the winner, wasn’t enough to whet the players’ appetites, the FIDE World Cup also awards three spots to the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament to be held in the first half of 2026, setting the stage for the next World Championship cycle. The knock-out tournament will be played along seven rounds – all rounds shall be played with two classical game matches, plus a tiebreak when necessary. Unlike previous editions, the tournament will not be held in parallel with the FIDE World Cup 2025, scheduled for November. Who to look out for? A total of 107 of the best players in the world, playing from 46 different federations, are set to participate in the event, including seventeen of the current top twenty! Bearing in mind that it’s a knockout tournament and that the twenty strongest players are all situated in a range of barely 100 rating points (it’s anyone’s game!), here are a few picks to watch out for, including seasoned professionals and young prospects! Lei Tingjie (2552), Zhu Jiner (2547) and Tan Zhongyi (2546) – the Chinese squad of GM’s top the first three spots in the starting list, a force to be reckoned with. Any one of them has the strength and experience to go deep in the event. Tan Zhongyi, who previously finished third in Sochi 2021 and fourth in Baku 2023, is excited about the event on and off the board. “Batumi is a beautiful city, and before diving into the hectic World Cup journey, I plan to thoroughly enjoy the local scenery. I’m really looking forward to visiting Batumi!” she shared. Nurgyul Salimova, the 2023 Baku silver medalist, is another rising star to keep an eye on. Reflecting on her journey, she says, “Baku was a big moment for me. Now, I am focused on Batumi and ready for the challenge!” Humpy Koneru – rated 2543, seed number four, she recently took first in the Pune Grand Prix. The Indian team won the 2024 Budapest Olympic gold – will Koneru, Harika, Vaishali or Divya be able to keep up the good form in Batumi? Aleksandra Goryachkina – currently rated 2533, the fourth-highest rated women of all time, will be looking to defend her Baku 2023 title. Alexandra Kosteniuk – rated 2474, Kosteniuk sports an amazing career full of important triumphs, including the Sochi 2021 Women’s World Cup Anna Muzychuk – rated 2535, the older of the two Muzychuk sisters is on a roll in 2025, winning two Women’s Grand Prix events (Austria and Cyprus) in addition to the recent Norway Chess Women’s tournament. “Looking forward to participating in the World Cup in Batumi! I’ve been many times in Georgia – a very hospitable country with rich chess traditions and tasty cuisine,” she said. Carissa Yip – rated 2431, the 21-year-old U.S. number one player has just taken down the 2025 Cairns Cup, completing a GM norm and winning $65,000 USD! Divya Deshmukh – rated 2463, 19-year-old Divya has already won three Olympic gold medals and recently defeated world number one Hou Yifan in the World Rapid Team Championship! Additionally, all the Georgian top contenders – Dzagnidze, Batsiashvili, Arabidze, Javakhishvili and Khotenashvili – will have a serious chance at a deep run. Playing on home turf, they will definitely be cheered on by all the local fans. The full starting rank can be found here Interesting first round clashes 86 of the 107 players will kick off the tournament on round one, while the top 21 main seeds will enjoy a bye, joining the winners directly in the second round. The rating gap between players in the first round is quite large – few serious upsets are to be expected. However, every event produces a few surprises, in which the underdog overpowers the favourite, but it’s very hard to pinpoint on which boards that might happen. Nonetheless, due to the special format of the tournament, the closest first round pairings occur on the last board. Dare I say that most of the upsets will occur on boards 30 to 43. Check out the Round One pairings here How to follow the event?