The FIDE World Youth Rapid & Blitz Chess Championship, which brought together 450 young players from 40 national federations competing across six age categories (U8 to U18) in both Open and Girls’ sections, concluded in Vrnjačka Banja, Serbia’s renowned tourism capital.
The six-day program culminated in an 11-round blitz chess tournament with the time control of 3 minutes per player plus a 2-second increment per move. 15 medals – 7 gold, 3 silver, and 5 bronze – were won by players from Russia. Kazakhstan followed closely with 4 gold, 3 silver, and 3 bronze medals.
A remarkable highlight came in the U18 Open section, where 11-year-old IM Roman Shogdzhiev claimed victory, stunning older and more experienced opponents.
The closing ceremony, exceptionally well-attended, featured the presentation of trophies, medals, diplomas, and prizes, prepared by the Chess Federation of Serbia.
Speeches were delivered by Saša Jevtić (tournament director), Özgür Solakoğlu (a representative of FIDE), Boban Đurović (President of the Municipality of Vrnjačka Banja), and finally Andrija Jorgić (President of the Chess Federation of Serbia), who officially closed the competition.
Saša Jevtić expressed deep gratitude to the Chess Federation of Serbia for entrusting him with leading “this great and significant project.” He also thanked FIDE for its timely support during preparations and praised Chief Arbiter Nenad Dorić and the arbiter team for their professionalism in managing such a demanding event.
Özgür Solakoğlu reflected on the spirit of the week and sincerely thanked the Ministry of Sports and the Municipality of Vrnjačka Banja for their strong support:
“This championship was enriched by two outstanding side events – the 1st World Cadet & Youth Blitz Solving Championship and the International Youth Rapid Team Championship – both of which added excitement, teamwork, and inspiration to an already extraordinary week. To our medallists and prize winners: congratulations. Your hard work and dedication brought you here. Wear your medals proudly. To all participants – not just the champions – you impressed us with your energy, sportsmanship, and love for the game. Every one of you contributed to the spirit of this event.”
Boban Đurović, Mayor of Vrnjačka Banja, congratulated all participants and expressed hope that they had enjoyed their stay: “I hope you take beautiful memories from our town and return again – not only as competitors, but also as guests. Thank you to the Chess Federation of Serbia and to Mr. Jorgić for choosing Vrnjačka Banja once more to host a world-class event like this.”
Finally, Andrija Jorgić officially closed the championship: “I congratulate all winners and prize recipients—and to those who didn’t celebrate this time: your moment will come. I wish you safe travels home, and I hope to see you back soon. I am proud of every single participant. Onward – to new chess victories!”
Photos: Chess Federation of Serbia
Official website: https://wcyrb.beochess.rs/