FIDE School Award winners celebrated at 2nd cycle webinar
The FIDE Chess in Education Committee recently hosted an online seminar to honor the recipients of the second cycle of the FIDE School Awards. This award recognizes excellence in school chess programs that have a dedicated focus on chess as an educational tool, have a demonstrable impact on their local communities, and maintain a sustainable model for engaging community and promote the educational and social/emotional benefits of chess. The awards are presented in gold, silver, and bronze categories based on a dozen assessment components. The evaluation focuses on three key aspects: chess an educational tool, the school’s impact on community and culture, and innovation. There are several ways chess programs can make a difference, but the ultimate goal remains the same: to raise awareness about the power of educational chess in schools to transform lives. One of the highlights of the webinar was the presentation of school programs, offering participants a glimpse into the diverse ways different schools go about integrating chess into education. These presentations also showcased the variety of methods different cultures approach the idea of chess as a means of enhancing education in many other subjects. Here is a quick overview of two of the award-winning schools that presented during the seminar: Overseas Family School (Singapore) The chess program at Overseas Family School (OFS) was a recipient of the FIDE Gold School award. Their program features a robust teaching component that has chess as a mandatory subject for grades K-5. They support kids learning at their own pace and developing a love for the game and incorporate innovative learning tools to assist children in learning, including chess yoga and songs. The school also engages the local and international chess community by organizing events that raise social awareness, such as their Checkmate to Racism initiative. Click HERE to learn more. Colegio Kender (Durango, Mexico) A recipient of the FIDE Gold School Award, Colegio Kender integrates both over-the-board and digital learning tools in a dedicated chess space on campus, to tell children about the transformative lessons chess can offer. The school organizes competitive tournaments and fun in-school events, such as Halloween Chess Night. Colegio Kender also promotes chess beyond the classroom by hosting public chess activities in community spaces. Chess is deeply embedded in the school’s culture, with students actively participating from early education through high school. Click HERE to learn more. Benefits of the award Beyond the prestige of recognition by FIDE, award-winning schools receive tangible benefits to further enhance their chess programs and introduce new tools including: ChessKid memberships – up to 500 Gold memberships (for 4 months) for their school. One-year Premium membership for your school on LearningChess.net One-year Premium LogiqBoard license for up to five teachers. Six months’ free Notationary.app membership for teachers. Discount for teachers of your school to attend an online Preparation of Teachers (PoT) Course. 20% for Bronze, 30% for Silver and 50% for Gold Award-winning schools. Collaboration and communication is key Of fundamental importance in keeping the momentum of the movement of educational chess is spreading the message through the collaboration of programs. FSA award winners were encouraged to connect with each other and find ways to create international partnerships and cultural exchanges to share ideas and open opportunities for kids to engage with each other. These collaborations do not have to be purely competitive, though a combination of friendly competition with cultural exchanges can be very fruitful. For example, two schools from the first cycle of awards, Hamilton K-8 School from the USA and G C School of Careers from Cyprus, played an online friendly match with. The kids from both sides had a great deal of fun and the event was celebrated in their communities. Promoting such international collaborations helps reinforce chess’s educational, social, and cultural benefits, extending beyond critical thinking into the social and cultural realms. Applications are open for the 3rd Cycle! Applications for the third cycle of the FIDE School Awards are now open and will close on April 30, 2025. We encourage schools committed to use chess as a tool for uplifting and enhancing the educational journey of a child to apply. There is no single approach to intergrading chess into education-different schools and communities do it in unique ways. Competitive chess is not a requirement for eligibility, what matters is demonstrating meaningful impact through chess. FIDE EDU invites you to share your stories with us so that we can all learn and help educate our communities about the transformative power of chess. Congratulations to the winners of the second cycle! Clink HERE for more information about the application. Written by Abel Talamantez
Social Chess Research Conference announced
FIDE is thrilled to invite you to the Social Chess Research Conference, an online event bringing together researchers, educators, practitioners, and chess enthusiasts to explore how chess contributes to improving quality of life, fostering social development, inclusion, empowerment, and rehabilitation. Date: Saturday, February 22, 2025Time: 15:00-19:30 CETLocation: Online (Zoom) This unique conference serves as a platform to highlight innovative applications of chess, from research breakthroughs to real-world stories of empowerment and hope. Program Structure 15:00–15:15 | Welcome Address by Dana Reizniece, Deputy Chair of the FIDE Management Board and Andre Vögtlin, FIDE Social Commission Chair 15:15–15:20 | FIDE Social Chess Videos 15:30–17:45 | Chess Research Presentations Prof. Filip Kobiela, “Chess as a challenge for the traditional definition of sport” (20 min) Dr. Giovanni Sala, “Chess and Mathematics in Primary School” (20 min) Juan Antonio Montero Aleu, “Cognitive Training of the Mind Through Chess: ECAM and Gymchess” (20 min) Prof. Dr. Sabine Vollstaedt-Klein, “Why chess is good for the brain and can be helpful against addiction” + “Introducing the International Society for Applied Chess (ISAC)” (45 min) Prof. Dr. Peter Hersics, “Learnings from EEG Neurofeedback System” (20 min) 17:45–18:00 | Chess Research Project Pitches Rodrigo Barbeito, “Social and Therapeutic Chess: A New Look from the Social Sciences” Dr. Uvencio Blanco Hernández, “Green Boards for Peace: bridges between chess and education to raise awareness about biodiversity and environmental sustainability” 18:00–18:20 | Breakout Sessions – Participants can join breakout rooms, each representing one of our social chess projects: Chess for Freedom Chess for Protection Infinite Chess – Autism Chess4Longevity – Elderly Chess4Hope – Underserved communities Chess4Recovery – Addiction/Cancer In these breakout sessions, scientific and operative questions can be raised and discussed among participants. Moderators will document the discussions and present a summary in the main session once the rooms close. 18:20–19:00 | Reporting from the Breakout Sessions 19:00–19:30 | Closing Remarks & Future Collaboration Opportunities Why Attend? This conference offers an inspiring blend of keynote presentations, interactive discussions, and thought-provoking panels, connecting a diverse community of individuals dedicated to leveraging chess as a tool for social transformation. Registration Register here: https://forms.gle/6quumvjkrAxadBWG8 Zoom link will only be sent to registered participants.
FIDE WGP Monaco R02: Positional battles on all boards
The second round of the FIDE Women’s Grand Prix featured tense positional battles across the boards, with most games concluding in calm draws. However, a dramatic turn of events unfolded in the game between Sarasadat Khademalsharieh and Harika Dronavalli, where a single blunder cost Black a crucial half-point. As this is still the early phase of the tournament and the first major FIDE event of the year, players are gradually finding their footing in the intense competition. Despite this, today’s round showcased exciting chess, unpredictable moments, and hard-fought games. Aleksandra Goryachkina – Alexandra Kosteniuk: ½-½ After suffering losses in the first round, both players entered this game under pressure, as a second defeat could significantly impact their confidence. Determined to improve on her previous game, Kosteniuk came well-prepared in a French Winawer, blitzing out her opening moves and entering a position she had previously played with White. However, Goryachkina deviated from known theory by move 10, leading to an imbalanced position with White saddled with doubled isolated pawns on the queenside. This structural weakness was compensated by a safe king and active piece play. After sacrificing a pawn, which was soon returned, White suddenly seized the initiative and launched a dangerous attack. At this moment, White needed to undermine Black’s pawn structure with 26.c4, but instead, 26.Re5 was played. This allowed Black to neutralize all danger by simplifying into a rook-and-pawn endgame. Despite White’s continued efforts, the game ended in a draw after 69 moves. Zhongyi Tan – Batkhuyag Munguntuul: ½-½ An intense battle filled with sacrifices unfolded in the game between Zhongyi Tan and Batkhuyag Munguntuul. The players tested a solid King’s Indian Attack in the Keres Variation, which gradually evolved into a strategic battle. After sacrificing a pawn, Tan demonstrated excellent piece maneuvering, obtaining a dominant position with a decisive material advantage. With two pawns up, White’s victory seemed inevitable, but an error in judgment cost her dearly. Munguntuul seized the opportunity to equalize immediately. Here, White had two good options, 44.Ng7 and less strong 44.f5, both maintaining the winning edge. Instead, 44.Nc7? allowed 44…Kd7, forcing White to give up the knight. With Black’s knight counterbalancing White’s three extra pawns, the game was eventually drawn on move 68. Humpy Koneru – Elisabeth Paehtz: ½-½ Elite round-robin tournaments often feature long-standing rivalries, and this was the case for Humpy Koneru and Elisabeth Paehtz, who have faced each other numerous times. Humpy entered the round with a slim historical edge (+1). Paehtz, playing Black, opted for a rare line of the Queen’s Gambit Accepted instead of her more usual King’s Indian. Playing with confidence, the German GM solved all her opening problems and then grabbed the initiative in the ending. Although Black dictated play for most of the game, precise conversion was required to capitalize on the advantage. Humpy defended resourcefully, simplifying the position and steering the game toward a draw. Sarasadat Khademalsharieh – Harika Dronavalli: 1-0 One decisive mistake, played with just 30 seconds left on the clock, determined the outcome of today’s clash between Sarasadat Khademalsharieh and Harika Dronavalli. The game was predominantly a positional battle, which appeared to be heading for a draw. However, Sara held a practical advantage—more time on the clock in an equal but tricky position, with a rook and bishop against a rook and knight. Despite being a pawn down, White had a dangerous passed pawn on the a-file that would eventually secure victory. Here, Black had multiple defensive resources, including the simple 38…Rxa7, neutralizing White’s threats. Instead, Dronavalli hurriedly played 38…Nxe5??, allowing 39.Rd8+!, forcing immediate resignation. Black was compelled to capture the rook, after which White’s pawn would promote unhindered. This unfortunate second consecutive loss for Dronavalli means the next round will be crucial for her to reverse the trend. Fortunately, the tournament is still in its early stages, leaving ample opportunity for a comeback. Kateryna Lagno – Bibisara Assaubayeva: ½-½ The encounter between the experienced Lagno and the young Grand Prix leader Assaubayeva featured a King’s Indian Defense, known for its dynamic and complex positions. However, Black misplayed early by advancing her f-pawn prematurely—an idea common in the KID but ill-timed in this instance. Lagno however, shifted focus to the queenside but lost her earlier advantage with a premature b3-b4 push. With multiple trades simplifying the position, the game reached a dead-drawn endgame featuring opposite-colored bishops, concluding in a natural draw. The third round of the Women’s Grand Prix continues with players looking to solidify their positions in the standings. Will Harika Dronavalli bounce back from two losses? Can Sarasadat Khademalsharieh continue her strong form? Stay tuned for more high-level action. Standings after Round 2: 1-4. Humpy Koneru, Kateryna Lagno, Sarasadat Khademalsharieh and Batkhuyag Munguntuul – 1.5; 5-7. Bibisara Assaubayeva, Elisabeth Paehtz and Tan Zhongyi – 1; 8-9. Alexandra Kosteniuk and Aleksandra Goryachkina – 0.5; 10. Harika Dronavalli – 0. Round 3 pairings and dates The third round of the third leg in the 2024/25 Women’s Grand Prix series starts on Thursday, February 20th at 15:00 CET local time in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. Round 3 pairings: Bibisara Assaubayeva – Aleksandra GoryachkinaHarika Dronavalli – Kateryna LagnoElisabeth Paehtz – Sarasadat KhademalshariehBatkhuyag Munguntuul – Humpy KoneruAlexandra Kosteniuk – Tan Zhongyi More information about the event, including the regulations and details of the pairings, as well as live games can be found on the official website: womengrandprix.fide.com. You can follow the games live and watch the action with our wonderful commentators GM Alojzije Jankovic & IM Almira Skripchenko on YouTube. Written by Charlize van Zyl Photos: Niki Riga
FIDE World Senior Championship 2025: Registration now open
All FIDE member federations are invited to participate in the 2025 World Senior Individual Chess Championships, which will take place in Gallipoli, Puglia, Italy, from October 20 (arrival) to November 2 (departure). The championships will feature four categories: Open and Women’s sections for 50+ and 65+ age groups. Players must have reached the respective age of 50 or 65 by December 31, 2025. The top three players from each category of the previous World Senior Championships have a personal right to participate. Additionally, the top three players from each category of the previous year’s Continental Senior Individual Championships are also qualified. Their places cannot be substituted. The total prize fund for all categories is €43,000. The registration deadline is September 1, 2025. As part of the event, several side activities will be organized, including two FIDE-rated blitz tournaments. Invitation letter, regulations, accommodation, prizes (PDF) The official website for the FIDE World Senior Chess Championships will be launched soon: worldsenior2025.fide.com E-mail: worldsenior@fide.com
Three victories mark Round 1 of FIDE Women’s Grand Prix in Monaco
Sparks flew across all five boards in the first round of the third leg of the Women’s Grand Prix in Monaco, with three players—Kateryna Lagno, Humpy Koneru, and Batkhuyag Munguntuul—emerging victorious. Their strong performances set the tone for what promises to be a fiercely competitive event. The third leg of the FIDE Women’s Grand Prix 2024-25 kicked off at 15:00in the elegant Novotel Monte-Carlo. This event is one of the strongest in the series, with titans of women’s chess battling it out – including leg 2 winner Aleksandra Goryachkina, and the overall leader in the standings, Bibisara Assaubayeva. Unsurprisingly, the level of play in the first round was noted by commentators GM Alojzije Jankovic & IM Almira Skripchenko as being “extremely high” with complex position emerging across all five boards. Time trouble became a common thread throughout the games, where blunders were made in critical positions, leading to upsets and three decisive outcomes. Let’s take a closer look. Round 1 results: Kateryna Lagno 1-0 Aleksandra GoryachkinaBibisara Assaubayeva 1/2-1/2 Sarasadat KhademalshariehHarika Dronavalli 0-1 Humpy KoneruElisabeth Paehtz 1/2-1/2 Zhongyi TanBatkhuyag Munguntuul 1-0 Alexandra Kosteniuk Kateryna Lagno 1-0 Aleksandra Goryachkina Fresh off her undefeated victory in the second leg of the Grand Prix in Shymkent, Goryachkina entered the event as a tournament favorite. However, her opponent, Kateryna Lagno, came out swinging right off the bat and played a brilliant game, outplaying her opponent to score a full point. Lagno was well-prepared in a Two Knight Defense sideline, putting Black in a 30minute time deficit by move 8. Despite not seeming too comfortable out of the opening, Goryachkina held her own, navigating through unchartered waters. By move 12, multiple exchanges, including that of the queens, had taken place, leaving Black with an isolated e-pawn and slightly inferior position. Nevertheless, the few pieces on the board did not mean that play was over, in fact, a positional battle ensued which revolved around Black’s weak pawn structure. Eventually, White obtained an advantage thanks to her more active rooks, but this quickly subsided as Black managed to steady her position to reach equality. But then, as we saw a few times this round, Goryachkina fell victim to time trouble and erred on move 39 – playing a seemingly practical move capturing White’s f-pawn when it was important to instead find a clever maneuver – something that could easily be overlooked in time trouble. Lagno capitalized on this mistake and executed the endgame flawlessly, taking down the tournament favorite. Bibisara Assaubayeva 1/2-1/2 Sarasadat Khademalsharieh As the current leader of the Grand Prix standings, Bibisara has the toughest task in this event – to extend her lead as much as possible, as this is her third and final leg. Her first game against Spain’s Sara Khadem started as a timid English, which quickly departed from known theory after move 9. In a joint interview, both players admitted that they were unsure about the opening, where Bibisara expressed dissatisfaction with her play. Staying true to her style, Assaubayeva created an imbalanced position which gave Black a slight advantage according to the engine, but practically it was not easy to navigate but rather quite scary in fact. Both players made a few dubious decisions, which led to a complicated position where Black held a sizable advantage. But after an incorrect trade in which she exchanged her strongest piece the light-squared bishop for the knight, Black lost the advantage and after multiple trades, the game ended in a draw. The result could have been better for both players, particularly for Sara, as she lost the opportunity to take down a very strong opponent. However, she remained in high spirits it was a day of celebration as her son, who is with her in Monaco, turned three today! Harika Dronavalli 0-1 Humpy Koneru The all-India clash was one of the most exciting boards to watch, with both players coming off their incredible 2024 successes surely full of confidence. Harika was part of the gold-medal-winning Indian team at the 2024 Chess Olympiad, and this is her first leg in the WGP series. Her compatriot, Humpy, on the other hand, ended off the year by winning the FIDE Women’s Rapid World Championship. Humpy has been a fixture in the WGP series, winning gold and silver in various legs. The game started as a Four Knights Ruy Lopez and all seemed calm for the most part, particularly after multiple trades steering the game to a balanced endgame. But Harika was clearly pushing, even refusing a three-fold repetition, finding herself in a position with an isolated e-passer and more piece activity. Both players were playing with minutes left in their clock as they approached move 40, but interestingly, it was on the 41st move that Harika opted for the incorrect plan after spending 13 minutes. In the situation of coming out of a time scramble, it is often difficult to compose one’s thoughts and remain calm. The advice is usually to relax after the additional time is granted and to take time to reassess the position. But there is always a danger of spending too much time on a move, which could lead to clouded thought and misjudgments. Perhaps this was Harika’s case, as Humpy grabbed a sizable advantage. This advantage soon dissipated as Humpy opted for a passive continuation instead of pushing for attack with her active rooks, king blocking White’s passer and pawn majority on the kingside. Both players found themselves in time trouble again, exchanging inaccuracies, though it was Black who held the superior position. Harika, likely believing in her position with the passed pawn, once again refused a repetition – a critical error that Humpy responded to by finding the correct plan and eventually picking up White’s passer. After five hours of play, Humpy finally emerged victorious. Elisabeth Paehtz 1/2-1/2 Tan Zhongyi The first Petroff of the day was seen on board 4, quickly becoming a dynamic game after opposite-sides castling. White opted for a structure in which Black had an isolated
FIDE Director for Chess Development visits Burkina Faso to promote chess growth
Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso — GM Nigel Short, the FIDE Director for Chess Development, continued his mission to expand chess across Africa with a recent visit to Burkina Faso. Upon arriving in Ouagadougou, he was warmly welcomed by the President of the Chess Federation of Burkina Faso, Nicolas Carbonell. Short’s visit focused on promoting chess among young people and showcasing its educational value. On the first day, he visited three schools where chess classes have recently been introduced. His first stop was Bouli School, located in an informal settlement with many internally displaced persons (IDPs) due to regional conflicts. Despite the challenges, chess has found a place in the hearts of these students. The next stop was the PMK Military School, where young cadets are trained to become future officers. Short had an informal meeting with the students and took a photo with the chess sets used in their classes, which began in November. The final school visit was to the American School of Ouagadougou. In the afternoon, GM Nigel Short held a conference at Chez Simon Restaurant, where he shared insights and strategies from his chess career. The conference was well-received by local chess enthusiasts eager to learn from the 1993 World Chess Championship challenger. During his visit, Short met with government officials, including the Minister of Sports, Youth, and Employment, Anûuyirtole Roland Somda, and the Minister of Secondary and Technical Education, Boubakar Savadogo. The discussions focused on expanding chess in Burkina Faso. The Sports General Director of the Primary Education Ministry, Kassoum Compaoré, confirmed that the Ministry would issue a letter encouraging the introduction of chess in primary schools nationwide. A highlight of the visit was a simultaneous exhibition at Princess Yenenga Restaurant, where GM Short played against 22 players from Burkina Faso. This event gave local chess enthusiasts the chance to compete against a world-class player. The Chess Federation of Burkina Faso has made significant progress in growing chess in the country. Since July 2021, the “Gift of Chess” program has donated over 1,000 chess sets to schools and organizations across the nation. According to Nicolas Carbonell, “Without the support of Gift of Chess, we wouldn’t have accomplished half of what we have. Their donations have allowed us to distribute sets to schools, restaurants, and clubs. We need more sets to reach every school in Burkina Faso.” Currently, around 300 adults and many children are actively playing chess across Burkina Faso. The Chess Federation has been instrumental in placing chess teachers in schools, providing sets, and creating spaces in local restaurants and clubs for adults to play. Burkina Faso’s players have also competed in international events, including the 2024 Francophony tournaments (both online and in Canada) and the Budapest Chess Olympiad. The country’s chess community participates in online events like the “Tournoi des Nations” and the “World Chess League” on chess.com. “We played Paraguay in the first round of the World Chess League, and our next opponent is Japan,” said Carbonell. “We’re also planning to compete in the African Chess Games in the West Africa zone.” Additionally, the Chess Federation has created the AES team (Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali) on Lichess and will soon host an arena tournament between the three countries. GM Nigel Short’s visit to Burkina Faso has left a lasting impact, reinforcing chess’s value as an educational tool and helping to further its popularity across Africa.
Third leg of FIDE WGP 2024–2025 kicks off in Monaco
The opening ceremony of the third leg of the FIDE Women’s Grand Prix 2024-25 took place on February 17 at the Salon Excelsior of the Hotel Hermitage Monte-Carlo. Welcoming players, officials, and guests in a refined and elegant setting, the event marked the start of this important stage in the FIDE Grand Prix series. The official program began at 18:00 with a welcome video introducing the tournament and its host city, Monaco. Moderator (and commentator for the event) Almira Skripchenko then welcomed everyone stating that she “didn’t know how to introduce Monaco, but that in fact, it needs no introduction” as it has served as a hub for women’s chess. A series of brief speeches followed. FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich opened by reflecting on the continued growth of women’s chess and the significance of this tournament within the wider chess calendar. Stéphane Valeri, CEO of the Société des Bains de Mer, spoke about Monaco’s connection to chess and the honor of hosting the event. Tournament Director Jean-Michel Rapaire highlighted the preparations that went into organizing the event, while Irina Bazhenova from TAEX expressed her company’s support for chess as a platform for education and development. Saxophonist Maria Zvereva performed a musical piece, providing a brief interlude before the presentation of the players. Each of the ten participants was called to the front to receive a copy of the FIDE100 book “Chess Players” where they were warmly welcomed as the superstars of the event. The players remained on stage for an official group photograph with the tournament’s sponsors and organizers. Following the player presentation, FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich presented commemorative FIDE100 medals to Stéphane Valeri and Virginie Cotta of SBM, in recognition of their support for the event. The President then officially declared the tournament open. The evening concluded with a second musical performance and a cocktail reception, where guests had the chance to speak with the players, take photos, and enjoy the elegant surroundings of the venue. The tournament now moves into the competitive stage, with the first round scheduled for February 18. The third leg of the FIDE Women’s Grand Prix 2024–25 runs until February 28, with rounds starting at 3:00 p.m. local time each day. You can follow the games live and watch the action with our wonderful commentators GM Alojzije Jankovic & IM Almira Skripchenko on YouTube. Written by Chalize Van Zyl Photos: Niki Riga
Prague welcomes 2025 World Senior Team Championship
The capital of the Czech Republic, Prague, has become a hub of chess activity this February, hosting the 2025 World Senior Team Championship. Running from February 16–27, the event has brought together the world’s top senior chess teams, competing in two categories—Open and Women—across two age groups: 50+ and 65+. The championship is organized by AVE CHESS, in collaboration with the Czech Republic Chess Federation and the International Chess Federation (FIDE). The 9-round tournaments, played under classical time control, are being held at the Olympik Hotel complex, where participants are also accommodated. Photo: https://www.olympik.cz/ The winning teams will be crowned world champions in their respective categories and awarded trophies, diplomas, and financial prizes. In addition to the main event, players will have the opportunity to participate in rapid and blitz tournaments, as well as a guided tour of Prague’s historic center. To uphold fair play, only accredited individuals have access to the playing areas. However, chess fans worldwide can follow the games online, with 50 boards broadcasted in each category. The organizers look forward to an exciting tournament and wish all participants the best of luck! For additional information, visit the official website, and don’t forget to follow the event on Facebook and Instagram for updates.
Azerbaijani Championship: Mamedov and Mammadzada capture titles
Rauf Mamedov and Gunay Mammadzada triumphed in the 2025 Azerbaijani championships, claiming their seventh and third national titles, respectively. The 2025 Azerbaijan Championships took place in the country’s capital, Baku, from February 1-14. Both open and women’s competitions were knockout tournaments (2-game matches with a tiebreaker if needed) with classical time control. The total prize fund was 60,000 AZN (~$35,000 USD) for the open section and 30,000 AZN (~$17,500 USD) for the women’s section, with the champions receiving 20,000 AZN and 10,000 AZN, respectively. Unlike in previous editions, the 2025 Open Championship boasted the strongest possible lineup, with all of Azerbaijan’s top players—including national team members—participating. The top three seeds lived up to expectations, advancing to the semifinals, while Misratdin Iskandarov, ranked #12 at the start, caused an upset by eliminating Nijat Abasov and Aydin Suleymanli to reach the final four. In the first semifinal, Shakhriyar Mamedyarov, the tournament’s rating favorite, dominated Iskandarov to secure his spot in the final. The second semifinal was a much tighter contest, with Rauf Mamedov narrowly defeating Teimour Radjabov in an Armageddon game. The final was a match of two worthy opponents that saw a real drama at the finish. After two classical and the first tiebreaker games were drawn, Mamedyarov blundered a rook in an equal endgame, handing the title to Mamedov. In the bronze medal match, Iskandarov defeated Radjabov to complete the podium. The rating favorites dominated the women’s event with the top, second, third and fifth seed advancing to the semifinals. Both matches were very close and came down to tiebreaks where Govhar Beydullayeva edged out Ulviyya Fataliyeva, while Gunay Mammadzada overcame Gulnar Mammadova. The women’s final was equally tense–after the opponents traded blows in classical games, a tiebreaker was needed to determine the champion. Gunay Mammadzada drew the first game with black and then instructively converted her advantage in the second-game ending to clinch the title. In the match for third place, Gulnar Mammadova outplayed Ulviyya Fataliyeva to claim bronze. At the closing ceremony, held shortly afterward, Chief Arbiter Lutfiyar Rustamov announced the final results. The champions were awarded medals, cups, flower bouquets, and certificates in recognition of their achievements. Photos: Azerbaijan Chess Federation
Project STEM CHESS 2025 by FIDE EDU and Opening Master announced
Opening Master and FIDE Education Commission are calling all out STEM graduate degree students who would like to author an interesting BIG DATA chess science project. With a massive chess database like Opening Master OTB with 10.3 millions official human games, we are selecting three predictive analytics projects that could yield interesting results for further chess theory study. Calling all Chess Masters in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) graduate degree students Participate in Cutting-Edge Predictive Analytics Research with Opening Master and FIDE EDU! Are you a STEM graduate degree student with a passion for chess and a minimum of ELO 2000? Here’s your chance to combine advanced analytics with the art of chess in a groundbreaking project with the renowned Opening Master database, containing over 10.3 million human chess games! Plus, compete to win a grand prize of $1,000 and making chess history. We’re looking for skilled and ambitious players to dive deep into predictive analytics and contribute to pioneering research in chess strategies. As a participant, you’ll work on one of three specialized projects using real-world chess data to uncover hidden insights into openings, player development, and game outcomes. This is an extraordinary opportunity to merge your analytical expertise with your chess mastery and make a signature to Chess Education, perhaps once taught in schools. Who should apply? This opportunity is perfect for STEM students pursuing advanced degrees at Universities who also hold a minimum ELO 2000 (exceptions will be granted based on individual evaluation). We encourage applications from those who are passionate about chess and keen to apply their analytical skills to produce game-changing insights. PhD degrees candidates are welcome too. Are you seeking for Master Thesis or Doctorate Thesis? This is perhaps the best way to combine it with your passion to chess. What you’ll gain Real-World research experience Engage with vast, real-world data from the Opening Master database. Get insights from real players behind. It is a great opportunity to talk to them on qualitative analysis. Publication potential Collaborate on findings with opportunities for research publications. Ready with publication? The project paper will have interesting thesis advisors (or dissertation advisor in case of PhD paper) and publication committee supported by FIDE and Opening Master. Networking Connect with fellow high-ranking chess players and data enthusiasts. With these highly exposed chess projects, you could connect to international Grand Master or even World Champions. Need mentor? Each project will include assigned mentor from STEM area whom you could discuss your findings. $1,000 Grand Prize and lifetime access to Opening Master A cash reward to recognize outstanding contributions to any of the three projects. On top, we are willing to support your expenses (necessary software licenses, travel, publication costs) How to apply Interested applicants should submit a CV, a cover letter explaining their chess background and analytical experience, and a brief statement on which project they’re most excited to work on. Applications are open until April 15, 2025. E-mail for applications: stemchess@openingmaster.com Don’t miss this unique chance to revolutionize chess strategy and analytics—apply now to make your mark on the future of chess! Contact us via our form. We reply to all applicants. Learn more about Chess Stem Project HERE. Opening Master official website: openingmaster.com/