Tula, Russia, 3 October 2026 — The 20th Asian Schools Chess Championships began on 2 October in Russia’s Tula region, bringing together 318 young players from 12 countries. Competition is taking place at the Shakhter Park Hotel, with Standard, Rapid and Blitz events continuing through 10 October.
The opening ceremony was held on the evening of 2 October at the exhibition complex of the historic Tula Kremlin. Participants and guests were welcomed by Mr. Dmitry Milyaev, Governor of the Tula Region; Mr. Alexander Tkachev, Executive Director of the Chess Federation of Russia; Mr. Mehrdad Pahlevanzadeh, Asian Chess Federation Events Director; and Grandmaster Sergey Karjakin.
Hosting the championships in Russia for the first time, the ceremony celebrated international friendship and the region’s chess heritage. A colourful cultural programme featured a parade of participating countries and performances inspired by a pawn’s journey to promotion.
Organized by the Asian Chess Federation and the Chess Federation of Russia, the championships feature separate boys’ and girls’ competitions in six age groups: Under 7, Under 9, Under 11, Under 13, Under 15 and Under 17.
The nine-round Standard championship runs from 2 to 8 October, with a time control of 90 minutes per player plus a 30-second increment from the first move. The Standard awards ceremony is scheduled for 8 October, followed by Rapid competition on 9–10 October and Blitz on 10 October.
The championships give young players an opportunity to compete for continental honours, gain international experience and build friendships through chess.
Pairings and results: Chess-Results
Opening ceremony photographs: Official photo gallery
Follow the championships through the official tournament website, with pairings and results on Chess-Results and live games on idChess.
Explore the tournament photo albums, including the opening ceremony gallery, and view the players’ scoresheets on the official website.