Following a review of the nominations for the 2026 Svetozar Gligorić Trophy, the FIDE Gligorić Trophy Award Commission has decided to award the trophy to two recipients:
Sebastian Poltorak (Poland) – For his exemplary sportsmanship during the 2025 European Chess Club Cup. In his game against Aleksandar Inđić, when his opponent became unwell and had to leave the playing hall for medical reasons, Poltorak agreed to a draw rather than seeking a competitive advantage from the situation.
GM Tin Jingyao (Singapore; pictured above) – For his exemplary fair play during the 2025 Almaty Region Open (Qonayev Cup). In Round 6, his opponent arrived after the default time due to heavy traffic. Although Tin Jingyao was entitled to claim a win by forfeit, he graciously chose to allow the game to be played.
The Commission considers both cases to be exceptional examples of fair play and sportsmanship, where respect for the opponent prevailed over the immediate competitive result.