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FIDE Al-Ain ACMG Academy launch: A new era of global talent development

The FIDE Trainers’ Commission is delighted to announce the official launch of the FIDE Al-Ain ACMG Academy, scheduled to begin on 1 December 2025.

FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich emphasized that this flagship initiative represents a cornerstone of FIDE’s long-term global strategy to develop young chess talents and ensure that every federation has equal access to world-class instruction.

“The FIDE Al-Ain ACMG Academy reflects our vision of a truly global chess community — one where talent, passion, and opportunity meet. By connecting young players with some of the greatest trainers in history, we are building a bridge to the future of chess education and giving every federation the chance to nurture its next generation of champions,” said Dvorkovich.

Sheikh Sultan bin Khalifa bin Sultan bin Shakhbout Al Nahyan, President of the Al Ain Chess & Mind Games Club, presented the launch of FIDE Al-Ain ACMG Academy as a project of global importance:

“This Academy is more than a training project — it is a dream shared by us and FIDE that every child deserves the chance to learn, dream and become a champion. Together with the FIDE Trainers’ Commission, we are creating a global platform that welcomes every young player, no matter where they come from — to engage in high-level training and learn from some of the greatest minds in chess history.”

The Academy brings together a constellation of legendary chess minds — including Hou Yifan, Rustam Kasimdzhanov, Alexander Khalifman, Vladimir Chuchelov, Artur Jussupow, Iossif Dorfman, Adrian Mikhalchishin, Ramesh R B, Vladimir Potkin, Aleksey Dreev, Vladimir Malakhov, Yevgeniy Vladimirov, Melikset Khachiyan, Yannick Gozzoli, Farrukh Amonatov, Alonso Zapata, and other great lecturers to be announced soon — who will deliver a comprehensive 400-hour training program designed to inspire and elevate the next generation of champions.

Training will be conducted in twelve specialized groups, across four languages (English, Russian, Spanish, and French), and will run from December 2025 to May 2026. The curriculum blends advanced chess instruction with personal development sessions, emphasizing both intellectual growth and character building.

A key highlight of the program will be the FIDE Al-Ain ACMG Academy Training Camp, which will take place in two stages — an online phase followed by an in-person camp in Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates, scheduled for mid-January 2026.

Participation in the camp will be determined based on selection criteria to be announced at a later stage.

FIDE invites all National Chess Federations to nominate four promising young players — two boys and two girls aged 8 to 16 — to take part in this prestigious program.

Nominations should be submitted by completing the [Registration Form] and sending it to trainers@fide.com no later than 14 November 2025.

The FIDE Al-Ain ACMG Academy embodies FIDE’s enduring commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and the advancement of chess education worldwide — shaping not only future grandmasters but also future leaders through the universal language of chess.

For more details and updates, please visit the FIDE Trainers’ Commission website.

From FIDE Al-Ain ACMG Academy launch: A new era of global talent development – International Chess Federation

FIDE World Senior Individual Chess Championship 2025 crosses midpoint

The record-breaking FIDE World Senior Individual Chess Championship 2025 has passed its halfway mark. After six rounds of intense competition in Gallipoli, Puglia, Italy, participants are enjoying a well-deserved day off.

The 50+ Open section has featured the fiercest battle for the top spots so far. After six rounds, four Grandmasters – Michal Krasenkow (Poland), Mikheil Kekelidze (Georgia), Rogelio Antonio (Philippines), and Victor Mikhalevski (Israel) – share the lead with 5/6 points. They are closely followed by a large group of eleven players, which includes three of the top seeds, all on 4.5 points.

Meanwhile, Alexander Mikhalevski (Victor Mikhalevski’s elder brother) reached the rest day as the sole leader in the 65+ Open tournament, scoring 5.5/6. His position, however, is far from secure, as ten players—including several top seeds—are just half a point behind.

The pre-tournament favorites occupy the top positions in the 50+ Women’s section, with Ketevan Arakhamia-Grant (Scotland) leading the field with 5/6. Pia Cramling (Sweden), Masha Klinova (Israel), and Silvia Alexieva (France) trail her by half a point.

Galina Strutinskaia (FIDE) has been a dominant force in the 65+ Women’s tournament so far. With a score of 5.5/6, she will head into Round 7 a full point ahead of her closest competitors: Tatiana Bogumil (FIDE), Nona Gaprindashvili (Georgia), and Larisa Khropova (FIDE).

With five rounds remaining, all four tournaments remain wide open, promising an exciting finish.

Full results and pairings are available on Chess-Results.

Official website: worldseniorchampionship2025.com/

From FIDE World Senior Individual Chess Championship 2025 crosses midpoint – International Chess Federation

Marlon Bernardino Jr. Wins Moonroast Rapid chessfest

National Master Almario Marlon Bernardino Jr. (seated foreground) emerged as champion of the Moonroast Coffee Rapid Open Chess Tournament held 26 October 2025 at Barangay Poblacion, Makati City, Philippines.
Bernardino finished the 7-round Swiss system competition with an undefeated score of 5.5 points on account of four wins and three draws to clinch the title.
Bernardino, 48, a veteran sportswriter and radio commentator is scheduled to compete in the Penang Open on December 18-23 in Penang, Malaysia and the Bois-Colombes Chess Master Tournoi International d Echecs on December 26-30 in Bois-Colombes, France.
Erik Spencer Valdez landed in second place with similar 5.5 points, while Christopher Concepcion settled for third also with 5.5 points.
Ricardo Jimenez, National Master Romeo Alcodia, Denzel John Amar and Elly Estabillo occupied the fourth to seventh spots with identical 5.0 points.
Completing the Top 10 were Jester Sistoza (4.5 points), Edgar Panganiban (4.0 points) and Rowenson Fabraggas (4.0 points).
The one day event was organized by Mr. Pete Dadula and hosted by Mr. Fred Fernandez in cooperation with Mr. Francis Burt Magpily of Tropang Chess Club.

2nd Olympiad for Players with Disabilities Concludes in Kazakhstan

The 2nd Chess Olympiad for People with Disabilities concluded today in Astana, marking a historic celebration of inclusivity, determination, and unity – coinciding with the Republic Day of Kazakhstan.

The final day began with a vibrant cultural performance featuring traditional Kazakh dances, music, and local cuisine, creating a festive atmosphere for the participants. The ceremonial first move was made by Andrey Gromov, President of the International Physically Disabled Chess Association (IPCA), together with Gulmira Dauletova, Executive Director of the Kazakhstan Chess Federation (KazChess).

“It’s the first time Kazakhstan has organised such an event,” said Gulmira Dauletova. “After hosting the World Cadets Championship just weeks ago, preparing this Olympiad in only 20 days was a huge challenge – but our team worked tirelessly, and we are proud that everything went so well. The players are happy, and that means everything to us.”

“Our main goal was to create smiles. Seeing the players enjoy themselves, especially during moments like our ‘Hug Day,’ was the most rewarding part,” she added.

A short but powerful history

The Chess Olympiad for People with Disabilities has a brief yet inspiring history. It began in 2020 with the first Online Olympiad, which saw 61 teams from 45 countries and nearly 400 players – Poland took gold in that inaugural edition.

Three years later, the dream of meeting over the board became reality in Belgrade, Serbia, where 23 teams competed in the first in-person event – Poland once again emerged victorious. This year in Astana, the Olympiad reached a record 34 participating teams, making it the largest and most inclusive edition to date.
The story continues: starting in 2026, the Olympiad for People with Disabilities will be held alongside the main Chess Olympiad, beginning in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

“For me, it’s special that chess allows people with all kinds of abilities to compete on an equal footing,” said Dana Reizniece, Deputy Chair of the FIDE Management Board. “Chess is one of the most inclusive sports in the world – and aligning these Olympiads ensures that everyone remains part of the same global chess family.”

Thomas Luther, Chairman of the FIDE Commission for People with Disabilities, added: “From next year, the Olympiad for People with Disabilities will take place alongside the main Olympiad and the FIDE Congress – a major step that guarantees the continuity and growth of this event.”

Stories of Inspiration

Inclusivity in chess extends to every corner of the world. Blessing Jemani, captain of the Zimbabwean team, shared a powerful story about his young student Tinashe Mvududu, who plays chess using his legs.
“He teaches us that disability is not inability,” said Jemani. “He’s an inspiration to our entire chess community – and though he couldn’t join us this year, we hope to see him competing next year in Uzbekistan.”

Awarding Ceremony

The closing ceremony was filled with emotion and pride.

Dana Reizniece delivered a heartfelt speech, expressing gratitude to all contributors: “The 2nd Chess Olympiad for People with Disabilities has been a true festival of humanity – a magnificent demonstration of the unbreakable spirit of chess. On behalf of FIDE, I would like to express our deepest gratitude to the Government of Kazakhstan and President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev for their continuous support of chess and its development. Our thanks also go to the Akimat of Astana and Mayor Zhenis Kasymbek for their warm hospitality, and to the Kazakhstan Chess Federation and its President Timur Turlov for their exceptional organisation. We are deeply grateful to our partners, Freedom Holding Corporation and all sponsors, for their invaluable support, and to the National Paralympic Centre for providing world-class playing conditions. Finally, heartfelt thanks to the arbiters, fair play team, and volunteers whose dedication ensured everything ran flawlessly.”

Team standings 

The final standings crowned the champions of the 2nd Chess Olympiad for People with Disabilities:

1st Place – FIDE 1 (Babarykin, Ermakov, Lipilin, Zakharova, Obodchuk)
2nd Place –Poland (Tazbir, Molenda, Piekielny, Leszner, Wolanski)
3rd Place – Israel (Gruenfeld, Streltsov, Gurbanov, Aleksandrova)

Full results: chess-results.com

Special awards and board winners

Special prizes

  • Youngest player with hearing disability: Farkas Virag (Hungary)
  • Youngest player with physical disability: Atassi Celine (USA)
  • Youngest player with visual disability: Kuanyshuly Nurgisa (Kazakhstan 2)
  • Oldest player with hearing disability: Jimenez Moron Elias (Panama)
  • Oldest player with physical disability: Babula Milan (Czech Republic; pictured below)
  • Oldest player with visual disability: Bibikov Yuriy (Kazakhstan 3)
  • Longest chess career (female): Dietsche Birgit (Germany)
  • Best game: Cheyzer Crystal Mendoza (Philippines)
  • Best performance: Maksim Ermakov (FIDE 1)

Board winners

Outstanding performances were also recognised on each board, highlighting individual excellence throughout the event:

Board 1: 1. Amato, Leonel (Argentina) 2. Varadi, Viktor (Hungary) 3. Gruenfeld, Yehuda (Israel) – pictured below
Board 2: 1. Glazar, Domagoj (Croatia) 2. Pavicevic, Jovan (Serbia) 3. Ermakov, Maksim (FIDE 1)
Board 3: 1. Musokeri, Prince (Zimbabwe) 2. Rasikhin, Igor (FIDE 2) 3. Kishan, Gangolli (India)
Board 4: 1. Cherono, Mercy (Kenya) 2. Ali Mohamed, Mohamed (Egypt) 3. Salamon, Julia (IBCA)
Board 5: 1. Kambarova, Aiganym (Kazakhstan 2) 2. Sarkar, Md Ali Nawaz (Bangladesh) 3. Pavicevic, Jovana (Serbia)

Passing the flag to Uzbekistan

During the ceremony, Gulmira Dauletova officially handed over the FIDE flag to Askar Ibraimov, Specialist of the Chess Federation of Uzbekistan for the Paralympic direction – symbolizing the transfer of hosting duties to Samarkand in 2026.

“How it started years ago – it was a challenge,” said Akaki Iashvili, FIDE Special Tasks Director. “But thanks to the FIDE DIS Commission, KazChess, the government, volunteers, arbiters, and the Fair Play team, we created optimal conditions and a beautiful atmosphere. The journey continues.”

With this symbolic moment, the 2nd Chess Olympiad for People with Disabilities officially came to a close – leaving behind unforgettable memories and setting the stage for a new chapter of inclusivity and excellence in Samarkand in 2026.

Official website: dis-olympiad2025.fide.com/

From Winners crowned at 2nd Chess Olympiad for People with Disabilities – International Chess Federation

Asian Schools Chess Championship Rapid Team Awards

To encourage team work among players from each country, team medals will be awarded per category based on the total score of the top three players of a federation. Federations with fewer than 3 players will not be eligible for a team award. In case of any tie, the tie-break scores of each player shall be considered.

Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Russia Top Asian Schools Rapid Championship

The 19th Asian Schools Chess Championship has officially commenced in Ulaanbaatar, the capital city of Mongolia, and will take place from October 25 to November 1, 2025. Above are medalists from Kazakhstan which topped the Rapid Chess event held 25 Oct.

A total of 677 young chess players from 16 Asian countries are competing for 432 medals in three formats — standard, rapid, and blitz — across 12 categories for boys and girls: U-7, U-9, U-11, U-13, U-15, and U-17.

The opening ceremony was held today in Ulaanbaatar with great ceremony. Distinguished guests included H.E. Zandanshatar Gombojav, Prime Minister of Mongolia and President of the Mongolian Chess Federation; Undram Chinbat, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism; Bilegt E, Chairman of the National Committee on Physical Education and Sports; representatives from the Asian Chess Federation; as well as international and domestic arbiters, coaches, players, and parents.

In his opening address, Prime Minister G. Zandanshatar stated:

“This championship plays a vital role in promoting the noble traditions of intellectual sports, strengthening friendship among students across Asia, and fostering future generations of intelligent citizens. The Government of Mongolia will continue to consistently support mind sports, expand chess education within the school curriculum, and prepare young chess players capable of competing at the international level.”

Minister Ch. Undram also emphasized in her remarks:

“Mongolians have long regarded chess as a great intellectual game — a means of sharpening the mind and nurturing future generations. Therefore, this tournament is not just a competition but a platform for friendship, mutual trust, and intellectual exchange among Asia’s youth. I am confident that all participants here will become the future masters, coaches, educators, and leaders in science and technology.”

Players who perform successfully in this event will have the opportunity to achieve title norms recognized by the International Chess Federation (FIDE) and qualify for international titles such as FIDE Candidate Master (CM) and FIDE Master (FM).

This year’s championship is particularly special as it is being hosted in Mongolia for the first time, serving as a major intellectual celebration that promotes chess, strengthens continental friendship, and inspires the next generation of chess talents.

The first Mongolian players to win gold medals at the Asian Schools Chess Championships were brothers — International Master Chinguun Sumiya (Standard) and Grandmaster Bilguun Sumiya (Blitz).

The Asian Schools Chess Championship 2025 will continue in Ulaanbaatar until November 1, showcasing a week of brilliant and inspiring battles of the mind.

Kazakhstan topped the medal tally with four golds and four silver medals, ahead of host Mongolia with four golds and three silver medals. Russians playing under FIDE flag followed with two golds and two silver medals.

Asian Schools Chess Championship Starts in Mongolia

The Prime Minister of Mongolia, the President of Mongolian Chess Federation, Gombojav Zandanshatar graced the opening ceremony of the 19th Asian Schools Chess Championship.
Presenting the full speech of Prime Minister of Mongolia, President of Mongolian Chess Association Gombojav at the opening ceremony.
Dear Teen Chess Players
Dear Guests and Representatives
The Asian Chess Federation has decided to organize the International High-ranked “19th Asian Schools Chess Championship” in our country, we are preparing for the grand opening ceremony today. This competition is the 19th time traditionally important competition and is distinguished as it is the first time in Mongolia. The Mongolian Government and Mongolian Chess Federation considers chess as not only a sport but also a part of national education to develop the thinking ability and logical thinking of every citizen. Mongolian Chess Federation is working with the goal of developing intellectual sports chess at the national level.
Thus, the goal of phased integrating of chess into the General Education curriculum, as well as developing the sport of chess at a national level on a broad scale or mass development is being implemented. This tournament is a clear manifestation of this policy, a historic event that opens the hands of a new generation of chess players.
Congratulations to the best junior chess players with around 700 international titles from 17 countries from our continent gathered in this prestigious competition today to compete their minds in 6 age groups ranging from 7 to age, 8-9, 10-11, 12-13, 14-15, 16-17. Athletes who have successfully participated in the tournament can qualify for the International Chess Federation titles. Dear chess players, your chess path is easy ahead of you.
I wish you to have a sharp mind, a beautiful movement, and a full of success. Good luck to Mr. Pahlevanzadeh Mehrdad, who is appointed by the Asian Chess Association to judge the prestigious international competition and other judges. We would like to thank all the foreign and local athletes, coaches and their parents who are participating in the tournament and wish you all the best.
Prime Minister Gombojav Zandanshatar with Chief Arbiter Mehrdad Pahlevanzadeh (third from left) and dignitaries at the opening.

Join FIDE International Organizers’ Seminar 15-18 November 2025

Asian Chess Federation will organize an online International Organizers Seminar 15-18 November 2025 by Zoom to educate organizers how to handle an International Event and the regulations necessary for the event to be FIDE certified. Applicants for the FIDE Associate Organizer and International Organizer titles are required to attend a seminar and pass an examination in order to obtain their FIDE IO title. Certificates of Completion will be awarded to successful participants.

Schedule is

Saturday, 15 Nov. 2025 10:00-14:00 Dubai time (+4GMT)
Sunday, 16 Nov. 2025 10:00-14:00 Dubai time (+4GMT)
Monday, 17 Nov. 2025 10:00-14:00 Dubai time (+4GMT)
Tuesday, 18 Nov. 2025 10:00-14:00 Dubai time (+4GMT)

Lecturers are

IO Ozgur Solakoglu, Honorary Chairman of the FIDE Events Commission,

IO Casto Abundo, Executive Director of the Asian Chess Federation (ACF),

IO Abdulrahim Mahdi, Chairman of the ACF Arbiters Commission and

IO Mehrdad Pahlevanzadeh, Counsellor of the FIDE Technical Commission.

Register at https://forms.gle/dvAFgmXffLcxEKMJA

Interested parties may inquire with casto.abundo@gmail.com

 

2nd Olympiad for People with Disabilities, Day 4: Inspiration, inclusion, and the power of chess

The fourth day of the 2nd FIDE Chess Olympiad for People with Disabilities began with a heartwarming initiative. GM Alisher Suleymenov of Kazakhstan, a bronze medalist at the Asian Championship, hosted a simultaneous exhibition on 12 boards for local children with disabilities at the Paralympic Training Centre.

“It was a great day! I was very excited to give a simultaneous exhibition against 12 very talented young stars,” said GM Suleymenov. “The games were quite interesting, and I hope this experience helps them grow. I wish them all the best in their chess journeys.”

Following the simul, the fourth round began with the ceremonial first move made by GM Thomas Luther, Chairman of the FIDE Commission for People with Disabilities; Diyar Seitov, Sports Director of the National Paralympic Center; and GM Alisher Suleymenov, fresh from his exhibition.

“Inclusive sport is very important – in Kazakhstan and around the world,” shared GM Suleymenov. “I’m really happy to see this movement grow and to meet so many strong players and young talents here.”

GM Thomas Luther emphasized the broader meaning of the event: “This Olympiad shows how the world of sports should be – inclusive and open. Every edition grows, and that’s our ambition.”

“This beautiful venue shows how chess belongs to both the Olympic and Paralympic families,” he continued. “Chess removes barriers. It’s one of the few sports where everyone – regardless of background or physical condition – can play together on equal ground.”

“Even if life gives you challenges, don’t be sad. Keep progressing. Today’s world gives everyone a chance – whether to become a chess master or succeed in any other field. That’s the message of this Olympiad.”

Stories of Strength and Resilience

Behind every participant stands a story of perseverance, courage, and love for the game.

Prince Musokeri from Zimbabwe shared his powerful journey: “I started playing chess as a little boy. I come from a poor background, and this is my first time playing abroad. I’m so happy to finally be here,” he said.

“Some years ago, during COVID, I struggled, got addicted to drugs, and lost my way – I was almost killed and even lost my memory. But chess gave me another chance to rebuild myself. Now I play for Zimbabwe, and my dream is to become a Grandmaster and teach others. Chess saved my life.”

Jesús Osorio from Panama, who also played in the inaugural Olympiad in Serbia, expressed his deep emotions about returning: “For me, it feels like a dream come true every time. This isn’t just a tournament – it’s a celebration. Win, lose, or draw, everyone is happy, everyone is celebrating chess.”

“Chess is everything to me. It’s how I prove myself, how I show I can be equal or even stronger. And it’s a universal language – here we come from all continents, yet we understand each other perfectly.”

Jesús also shared a touching detail: “My wife is my lucky charm. She travels with me everywhere and even keeps my lucky pen – the one I used when I held a draw against a FIDE Master in round 1. She takes care of everything, and I’m so grateful for her strength.”

These stories capture the essence of the Olympiad – a place where courage meets community, and every move on the board reflects a life story of determination.

Standings after Round 4

With two rounds remaining, the race for gold is heating up. Poland and FIDE 1 are leading the standings with a perfect 8/8 team points. Just behind them, the teams from Israel, USA, Philippines, Cuba, IBCA, and IPCA are within striking distance with 6/8 points each.

Tomorrow promises thrilling clashes at the top as Poland faces FIDE 1 in a key matchup.

You can find the standings after Round 4 and pairings for the next round on Chess-Results.

From: 2nd Olympiad for People with Disabilities, Day 4: Inspiration, inclusion, and the power of chess – International Chess Federation

Join FIDE Arbiters’ Seminar at Asian Youth in Bangkok

In order to provide National Arbiters an opportunity to attend a face-to-face seminar, Asian Chess Federation shall conduct a FIDE Arbiters’ Seminar during the free time of the Asian Youth Chess Championship in Bangkok, Thailand.

Visit FIDE Arbiters’ Seminar in Bangkok (Asian Chess Federation) – FIDE Arbiters’ Commission

Inquiries: Casto Abundo, Executive Director, Asian Chess Federation (casto.abundo@gmail.com)

The Lecturer will be IA Abdulrahim, Mahdi (UAE), FIDE Lecturer.

The language of the Seminar will be English.

The Seminar will give norms and titles of FIDE Arbiter, according to the Regulations for the titles of Arbiters.

Schedule: 

(Bangkok time GMT +7)
Laptops required for exam

14:00-19:00 Saturday, 22 November 2025
14:00 Introduction, Laws of Chess, Rapid and Blitz (Chapter 2 p. 5 of FIDE Arbiters’ Manual)

14:00-19:00 Monday, 24 November 2025
15:00 Types of Tournaments (Chapter 4: p. 105)
16:00 General Regulations for Competitions (p 189), Berger and Varma table (p. 198)
17:00 Tie Break Systems (p. 202)
18:00 Swiss system and pairing rules. (Chapter 5, p. 112), Accelerated System (p. 146)

14:00-19:00 Thursday, 27 November 2025
15:00 FIDE Rating Regulations (Chapter 6, p. 148), Rapid and Blitz Rating
16:00 International Title Regulations (Chapter 7, p. 159)
17:00 Regulations for the Titles of Arbiters (Chapter 10, p. 217), Classification of Arbiters (p. 235)
18:00 Fair Play Guidelines for Arbiters (Anti Cheating) Chapter 3, p. 59)

14:00-19:00 Friday, 28 November 2025
14:00 Q&A
15:00 Exam (sample questions p 283)