Chief Minister unveils FIDE World Cup 2025 logo and anthem

206 players from 82 countries to compete as music legend Daler Mehndi lends his voice to an anthem celebrating Goa’s cultural flair

Panaji, October 21: A glittering ceremony celebrating Goa’s rich cultural heritage and India’s growing stature as a global chess powerhouse marked the launch of the official logo and anthem of the FIDE World Cup 2025, unveiled by Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant in Goa on Tuesday. Returning to India after 23 years, the prestigious tournament will feature 206 players from 82 countries, with the anthem—voiced by music legend Daler Mehndi—capturing the spirit and vibrancy of Goa.

The FIDE World Cup 2025, one of the most prestigious tournaments on the global chess calendar, will be held in North Goa from October 31 to November 27, 2025, bringing together elite players from across the world in a knockout contest for a prize purse of USD 2 million (approx. INR 17.58 crore).

While the logo reflects Goa’s vibrant, culturally rich identity—capturing the essence of the state’s coastal charm and the strategic elegance of chess—the anthem, sung by legendary artist Daler Mehndi, adds a touch of grandeur and mystique to the event.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Honb’le Goa Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant said, “It is a moment of immense pride for Goa to host the FIDE World Cup 2025, one of the most prestigious events in global chess. This milestone not only reaffirms our state’s commitment to becoming a premier destination for international sport but also celebrates India’s rising prominence on the world chess stage. The official logo and anthem reflect the very soul of Goa — vibrant, creative, and deeply rooted in culture — while capturing the strategic elegance of chess. We are ready to welcome the world’s finest players to our shores for 28 days of top-class competition, camaraderie, and an experience that blends the spirit of Goa with the brilliance of the game.”

The logo and anthem launch was also attended by Dr. Ramesh Tawadkar, Minister for Art and Culture, Tribal Welfare, and Sports and Youth Affairs, Nitin Narang, President of the All India Chess Federation (AICF) and Dev Patel, Secretary AICF.

Dr. Ramesh Tawadkar, Minister for Art and Culture, Tribal Welfare, and Sports and Youth Affairs, said, “The FIDE World Cup 2025 is a remarkable opportunity to bring together culture, art, tourism, and sports on one grand stage. Goa has always been known for its vibrant heritage and hospitality, and this event will showcase how seamlessly our cultural identity blends with the global spirit of competition. The World Cup will stand as a testament to Goa’s ability to celebrate excellence — on and off the chessboard — while promoting our state as a world-class destination for sport and tourism.”

Complementing the visual identity of the event is its official anthem — a dynamic celebration of India’s strategic prowess and youthful energy. Featuring the Hon’ble Prime Minister in its music video, the anthem brings together the spirit of the nation with the brilliance of chess. Iconic singer Daler Mehndi, known for his powerful and distinctive voice, infuses the anthem with his signature vibrancy, rhythm, and energy.

Centered around the empowering theme “It’s Your Move,” the song captures the essence of India’s growing might in world chess while highlighting the vibrancy of its culture. The video also showcases India’s leading chess grandmasters and stars like World Champion D. Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, Koneru Humpy, Tania Sachdev, and Vidit Gujarati, symbolizing the new generation that is taking Indian chess to unprecedented heights.

AICF President Nitin Narang thanked the Goa government for their support for the event and said, “Securing the hosting rights for the FIDE World Cup 2025 is a landmark moment for India and a testament to our growing credibility in the global chess community. Bringing a tournament of this magnitude to our shores — after 23 years — is not just a sporting success, but a proud national achievement. It will give Indian fans a rare opportunity to witness the world’s best players compete on home soil, inspiring a new generation to take up the sport. The anthem, with its energy and emotion, will revitalize chess across the country and take the game from clubs and academies into every home in India.”

About the World Cup 2025 logo

The logo feature three distinctive trapezoidal panels, the design captures different facets of Goa and the tournament itself. The Green Panel shows a white palm tree with a blue wave at the bottom. The Red Panel boasts of a diamond-shaped checkerboard pattern in white while the Yellow panel has a stylised sun with curved rays, representing Goa’s sunny weather and warm, welcoming vibe.

From India makes its move: Goa CM Pramod Sawant unveils FIDE World Cup 2025 logo and anthem – International Chess Federation

Patrick Bonifacio Wins Director’s Chess Cup

Patrick Bonifacio emerged as champion of the Director’s Cup Non Master Rapid Chess Tournament 1950 and below category on 18 October 2025 at the Farmers Plaza, Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines.

Bonifacio finished the 7-round Swiss system competition with an undefeated score of 6.0 points on account of five wins and two draws to clinch the title and the P4,000 cash prize.

Israel Landicho landed at second place with similar 6.0 points.

John Christian Garcia , Jay Fortunado, and Reu Sebolino occupied the third to fifth spots with identical 5.5 points.

Completing the top 10 were Lord Yofiel Young, Joseph Bendal, Anthony Avellaneda, Joe Marie Dinson Jr. and Alejandro Segales with 5.0 points each.

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Meanwhile, John Randall Peralta finished the tournament with 6.5 points and won the title in the 12 years old and below kiddies division.

At second place was Marcus Louise Jacutina with 6.0 points followed by third and fourth placers Jullio Angelo Janaban and Julio Janaban Jr. who got 5.5 points apiece.

The Tournament Director was Martin Gaticales (photo above) assisted by Chief Arbiter IA Patrick Lee and Deputy Chief Arbiter FA Roy Madayag.-Marlon Bernardino

FIDE Trainers’ Online Seminar Set 31 Oct to 2 Nov 2025

The Asian Chess Federation in cooperation with the FIDE Commission for Women’s Chess under the supervision of the FIDE Trainers’ Commission is pleased to announce FIDE TRAINERS’ ONLINE SEMINAR – 31 October -02 November 2025.

Incredible Trainers will share their priceless experience with the participants:

GM Iossif Dorfman
GM Vladimir Malakhov
GM Yevgeniy Vladimirov
GM Adrian Mikhalchishin
GM Melikset Khachiyan

Download detailed seminar agenda and regulations: FIDE TRAINERS’ ONLINE SEMINAR – 31 October -02 November 2025 (ENGLISH)

FIDE Olympiad for People with Disabilities Starts in Kazakhstan

The 2nd FIDE Olympiad for People with Disabilities officially began in Astana, Kazakhstan, bringing together 34 teams from 29 countries. Additionally, eight more nations are represented through the teams of the IPCA (International Physically Disabled Chess Association), IBCA (International Blind Chess Association), and ICCD (International Committee of Silent Chess) — making it a truly global event, with participants from 37 countries in total.

The games are hosted at the Paralympic Training Centre, one of the most advanced and accessible sports facilities in Central Asia. With two spacious playing halls, the venue offers perfect and comfortable conditions for all participants, reflecting the Olympiad’s core message of inclusion and equal opportunity.

Opening ceremony

The opening ceremony was held in a warm and inspiring atmosphere, attended by dignitaries, players, and guests who celebrated the start of this unique event.

In the main playing hall, the first ceremonial move was made by Erlan Karin, State Counsellor of the Republic of Kazakhstan; Arkady Dvorkovich, President of FIDE; and Timur Turlov, President of the Kazakhstan Chess Federation.

Timur Turlov spoke about the significance of this Olympiad, saying:

“Chess is a great symbol of equality and an opportunity to play across the globe. Having differences doesn’t change that – chess unites.”

In the second playing hall, the first move was performed by Baglana Musina, President of the Corporate Fund Freedom Shapagat; Oscar Santana Leon, Ambassador of Cuba; and Dmitriy Balandin, Olympic Swimming Champion.

FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich emphasized the importance of inclusivity in chess, noting that this Olympiad stands as a model of equal opportunity:

“Chess is inclusive, and we must ensure that everyone has access to top events. The Olympiad for People with Disabilities proves that we are creating those opportunities for all.”

He also highlighted FIDE’s broader commitment to social initiatives around the world:

“Through projects like Chess for Refugees, Chess for Freedom, and Chess for Children with Autism, we’re showing that chess is truly for everyone. This Olympiad is our flagship event – a reminder that chess is accessible and brings happiness to all who play it.”

Voices of the 2nd Olympiad for People with Disabilities

The Olympiad is not only about the results – it’s about people and their stories. Every participant brings a story of resilience, courage, and passion for the game.

Shantel Panashe Gweshe from Zimbabwe, a social worker and first-time Olympiad participant, shared her experience:

“It’s my first time coming all the way from Zimbabwe, participating in this Olympiad. What I have seen here – there’s so much inclusivity for people living with disabilities. When I go back to Zimbabwe, the first thing I’m going to do is empower other people with disabilities to ensure inclusivity and participation.”

Meanwhile, Henry Lopez from the Philippines (pictured above), who won a bronze medal at the first Olympiad in Serbia in 2023, reflected on how deeply chess has shaped his life:

“Chess for me now is my source of living. I am a national team player in the Philippines, and I receive a stipend from the government. Chess is a universal language – it’s a great equalizer. No matter how old or young you are, or whether you have a disability, you can play. Chess is for everybody.”

With determination in his voice, Henry added:

“At the previous Olympiad, we got third – this time, frankly speaking, we are aiming for number one.”

This is what the FIDE Olympiad for People with Disabilities is truly about – gathering players from all around the world, giving them opportunities to show the power of their minds, and celebrating the unifying strength of chess.

Games and results

The first round brought exciting games and strong performances by the top teams. Almost all favorites won their matches convincingly.

Uzbekistan, India, Venezuela, and FIDE 1 began their campaigns with impressive 4–0 victories.

There were, however, two notable ties: North Macedonia held the Czech Republic to a 2–2 draw, and ICCD (International Committee of Silent Chess) also drew with Argentina.

You can find all results, pairings, and standings after the first round on Chess-Results:

s3.chess-results.com/tnr1276749.aspx?lan=1&art=0&rd=1&SNode=S0

Side events in Astana

In addition to the competition, today featured two important milestones for the global chess community.

A Memorandum on Declaring 2026 the Year of Chess in Education was signed between FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich and President of the International School Chess Federation Timur Turlov, who also leads the Kazakhstan Chess Federation.

Following the signing, Timur Turlov said:

“I hope that it will help a lot of kids to discover themselves better – to train their ability for strategic thinking, to keep concentration, to build clubs, and to make friends across the globe.”

FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich highlighted that this initiative aims to significantly expand chess participation among young people:

“Our goal is to double the number of children playing chess worldwide, and our partnership with the International School Chess Federation will help us make that a reality.”

Another memorandum was signed between Turkey, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan, establishing an Association of Turkic-Speaking Countries. This new initiative aims to bring the work of these nations closer together, strengthening cooperation in chess development and the organization of joint events.

A celebration of unity and inclusion

The first day of the 2nd FIDE Olympiad for People with Disabilities set the tone for a remarkable event – one that celebrates not only competitive excellence, but also the human values of inclusion, equality, and respect.

The Paralympic Training Centre in Astana has become a home for players from all corners of the world, united by one timeless truth: chess is for everyone.

Official website: dis-olympiad2025.fide.com/

Al Ain Chess and Mind Games Club Crowned Champion of the UAE Women’s Chess League

Al Ain Chess and Mind Games Club has been crowned champion of the 2025 UAE Women’s Chess League after a remarkable performance and absolute dominance throughout the competition held 4-19 October 2025. The team achieved victory in all its matches, both home and away, against every participating club across the country—without a single loss or draw—clinching the historic title with a perfect score. This unprecedented accomplishment reaffirms the club’s superiority in the women’s chess scene in the UAE.

Al Ain began its campaign with a well-deserved victory over Abu Dhabi Club (4–2), then continued its winning streak throughout the tournament. The team concluded with decisive wins over Sharjah Club (6–0) and Dubai Club (5–1), confirming its total dominance and securing the championship with a flawless record.

The Al Ain women’s team delivered an exceptional, heroic performance characterized by harmony and a strong fighting spirit. The team featured local world champion, Engineer Wafia Darwish Al Maamari (photo above), UAE and Asian Blitz Chess Champion; International Master Cécile Haussernot, Champion of France and Europe; Dr. Wedema Al Kalbani; Zainab Darwish Al Maamari; Mouza Nasser Al Shamsi; Sheikha Abdullah Al Marikhi; and Sheikha Nasser Al Shamsi, who all represented outstanding professionalism and discipline on and off the board.
The team also included International Master Muna Al Harmoudi, Engineer Mouza Al Mansouri, and player Amal Fadel Al Shamsi.

FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovic sent a letter of congratulations.

His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Khalifa bin Sultan bin Shakhbout Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Club, expressed his pride and gratitude for this achievement, saying “We dedicate this precious victory to our wise leadership — to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE (may God protect him), His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, and His Highness Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain Region — as well as to the fans of Al Ain Chess and Mind Games Club. Winning the Women’s League Championship undefeated reflects the strength of our system and our strategic vision to develop and empower female talents to elevate the level of Emirati chess.”

For his part, Hisham Al Taher, Managing Director and CEO of Al Ain Chess and Mind Games Club, emphasized that this achievement is the natural result of accumulated experience, the dedicated efforts of the players and coaches, and the effective supervision of the club’s technical management.
He added that it is also the fruit of close collaboration between the Board of Directors and the executive team, praising the continuous support of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and its departments for meeting the club’s needs and removing obstacles in fulfilling its mission.
He affirmed that Al Ain Chess and Mind Games Club continues to compete with itself, strengthen its pioneering role, and will add further regional and international achievements in the near future across various fields.

All Set for Asian Schools Chess Championships in Mongolia

Close to 700 players from 17 countries have registered for the Asian Schools Chess Championship scheduled 24 October to 2 November 2025 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.

Visit official site https://ascc2025.chesstournament.org/

Federations should check their data and inform organizers of any last minute changes to flight details.

Visit chess-results.com to verify your federation’s registered players.

For any corrections, please email

WGM Enkhtuul Altan-Ulzii
FIDE Delegate of the Mongolian Chess Federation
Email: delegate@mcf.mn
Whatsapp & Tel: +976-88032888

cc: Pairings Arbiter email: mykelpagz@gmail.com

WhatsApp: +63 961 485 3243

Singapore to host inaugural Asian Mind Sports Conference & Festival this November

The Asian Mind Sports Association (AMSA) is proud to announce the launch of the inaugural Asian Mind Sports Conference & Festival, taking place from 13 to 15 November 2025 at the Suntec Convention Centre in Singapore. The event is co-organised with the Singapore Chess Federation, Singapore Weiqi Association, Singapore Xiangqi General Association, and Singapore Contract Bridge Association.

Bringing together top athletes, officials, and federations from four mind sports – namely Chess, Contract Bridge, Weiqi (Go), and Xiangqi (Chinese Chess) – the festival marks a landmark moment in advancing the profile of mind sports across Asia. The programme will feature regional friendly competitions, a Mind Sports Conference, and the AMSA Executive Board Meeting.

Asian Chess Federation General Secretary Hisham Al Taher has been invited to the event.

With a total prize pool of over SGD40,000, the Asian Mind Sports Festival seeks to showcase the depth of strategic thinking, foster cross-cultural exchange, and expand competitive opportunities for mind sport athletes throughout the region.

“Mind sports have long held the power to unite cultures, sharpen intellect, and inspire excellence. Yet they have not been featured regularly in major multi-sport events such as the Asian Games. The event represents the beginning of a new chapter, where federations collaborate more closely, formats evolve, and athletes receive the recognition and support they truly deserve. It will also provide a benchmark for a potential new multi-mind sports games in the future, said Gordon Tang, President of the AMSA.

More than a celebration, the event is designed to help build a structured and sustainable ecosystem – one that nurtures grassroots participation, industry engagements, while also elevating elite competition. In partnership with the Olympic Council of Asia, AMSA aims to establish a strong regional platform for long-term athlete and industry development and professionalisation.

Singapore has become an increasingly vibrant hub for mind sports. In 2024, the nation hosted the FIDE World Chess Championship, marking the first time in nearly 40 years that the event was staged in Southeast Asia and further solidifying Singapore’s place on the global chess map. Locally, the grassroots scene continues to thrive, with after-work clubs and community tournaments drawing growing participation.

Kevin Goh, CEO of the Singapore Chess Federation, said: “Hosting the FIDE World Chess Championship last year greatly increased interest and participation in chess at all levels. We’ve seen how major events can energise communities and inspire new players. I believe the Asian Mind Sports Conference & Festival will spark that same enthusiasm – not only for chess, but for all mind sports.”

Looking ahead, the event will also serve as a testing ground for new formats and innovations, setting the stage for the continued growth and professionalisation of mind sports across Asia.\

From Sports: Singapore to host inaugural Asian Mind Sports Conference & Festival this November – WhatsThePlanPlease

For further details about the event, please visit www.asianmindsports.org.

Asians Win Gold in FIDE World Youth U14, U16 & U18 in Albania

The curtains have closed on the FIDE World Youth U14, U16 & U18 Championships 2025, marking the end of two unforgettable weeks of competition, friendship, and global unity through chess. Hosted at the Grand Blue Fafa Resort in Durrës, Albania, the championship, held 3-16 October 2025, brought together 720 players from 83 federations — the world’s most promising young talents — in an atmosphere of excellence and fair play.

After 11 intense rounds, the world’s best young talents were crowned in six categories:

U18 Open

GM Siddharth Jagadeesh (Singapore)
IM Artiom Stribuk (FIDE)
IM Adarsh Uppala Sriram (India)

U18 Girls

WIM Gao Muziyan (China)
WIM Manon Schippke (France)
Valeria Kleymenova (FIDE)

U16 Open

GM Edgar Mamedov (Kazakhstan)
IM Sauat Nurgaliyev (Kazakhstan)
FM Alexandr Volodin (FIDE)

U16 Girls

WFM Diana Khafizova (FIDE)
WFM Marija Kuznecova (FIDE)
Chen Yining (China)U14 Open

FM Mark Smirnov (Kazakhstan)
IM Haochen Jiang (China)
CM Artem Lebedev (FIDE)

U14 Girls

WFM Polina Smirnova (FIDE)
Rukiya Olimova (Uzbekistan)
Jamaicah Yap Mendoza (Philippines)

Each winner received their medals from distinguished guests, underlining the spirit of unity and respect that defined the championship. Applause filled the hall as the young players stood proudly, representing not only their countries but also the future of chess worldwide.

The closing ceremony

The closing ceremony, held on October 15, was a fitting celebration of talent and achievement, blending official addresses, cultural performances, and heartfelt moments of recognition. The evening began with the National Anthem of the Republic of Albania and the FIDE Anthem, performed by the Durrës City Band, setting a tone of dignity and international solidarity.

Opening the ceremony, moderator Kozeta Kurti welcomed guests and participants, expressing gratitude to everyone who made the championship possible — from organizers and arbiters to volunteers and partners. She highlighted the event as a “celebration of friendship, respect, and shared values that connect us all through sport and intellect.”

Erald Dervishi, President of the Albanian Chess Federation (FSHSH) and Grandmaster, addressed the audience with pride, emphasizing Albania’s growing role in the international chess scene:

“Under the guidance of FIDE, and with the support of our partners, we have successfully hosted another world-class event that brings together young champions from around the globe. This tournament is a testament to what passion, teamwork, and vision can achieve.”

The ceremony also honored the presence of distinguished guests:

Erald Dervishi – President of the Albanian Chess Federation (FSHSH)
Bajram Begaj – President of the Republic of Albania
Fidel Ylli – President of the National Olympic Committee of Albania (KOKSH)
Eduard Shalsi – Honorary President of the Albanian Chess Federation (FSHSH)
Gentian Kallmi – Deputy Mayor of Durrës
Ozgur Solakoglu – Technical Director of the Event / Representative of the World Chess Federation (FIDE)
Fatos Çerenishti – President of FAFA Group

Their attendance symbolized the recognition of chess as not only a sport, but also a tool for education, discipline, and cultural diplomacy.

Honoring excellence and announcing a new partnership

Before the medal presentations, the Albanian Chess Federation proudly announced a new partnership with the Kasparov Chess Foundation Academy (KCF Academy). As part of this collaboration, full scholarships will be awarded to all category champions, granting access to a 164-hour online program featuring lessons from some of the greatest chess minds — including Garry Kasparov, Fabiano Caruana, Levon Aronian, and Veselin Topalov.

The announcement received enthusiastic applause, signaling a powerful continuation of the champions’ educational journey beyond the tournament.

A cultural celebration

The evening featured vibrant performances, including a Traditional Dance from the Mirdita region by the National Folk Ensemble and a Folk Dance from Central Albania performed by the Durrës Folk Group — celebrating Albania’s cultural richness and warm hospitality.

A memorable farewell

In the closing remarks, participants were thanked once more for their dedication and sportsmanship. Moderator Kozeta Kurti concluded with an uplifting note:

“This concludes the Closing Ceremony of the FIDE World Youth U14, U16 & U18 Championships 2025. We congratulate all participants and champions and invite you to enjoy one last performance. Have a good night — and see you at the next championship.”

A legacy for the future

The 2025 FIDE World Youth U14, U16 & U18 Championships in Durrës leave behind more than medals — they mark a milestone for Albania as a growing hub for international sports and youth development. With the joint efforts of FIDE, FSHSH, KOKSH, and local partners, the event showcased how chess continues to inspire minds and connect communities worldwide.

Photos: Vlera Zenjullahi and Dardan Bajrami

From FIDE World Youth U14, U16 & U18 Championships 2025 conclude with celebration and pride – International Chess Federation

Official website: fideworldyouth.achf.org.al/

Champions Crowned at Asian Senior Chess Championships 2025 in Erbil, Iraq

Over-50 Category: Kyrgyzstan’s Umarbekov Crowned Champion

In the Over-50 category, Aziz Umarbekov of Kyrgyzstan captured the Gold Medal with a commanding 7.5 points, demonstrating remarkable consistency, composure, and tactical precision throughout the tournament.

Close behind, IM Hussein Ali Hussein Al-Ali of Iraq, the hometown favorite from Erbil, delighted local supporters with his resilient play to secure the Silver Medal with 7 points. GM Ramil Hasangatin of Russia, who led in the early rounds, finished strongly to claim the Bronze Medal with 6.5 points. CM Marwan Aboudi of Jordan and CM Joseph Ebenezer of India both scored 6 points, completing the top five in a closely contested field.

Adding to the host nation’s success, the Best Women Awards in the Over-50 category were swept by Iraqi players. Iman Mahdi Ahmed earned the Best Woman prize with 4.5 points, followed by WCM Jwan Jamal Mohammed Ameen in second place with 4 points, and Dilpak Ali Hamzah in third place with 3.5 points.

Visit chess-results.com for round by round results and standings.

Over-65 Category: Primbetov of Kazakhstan Claims Gold in a Close Finish

The Over-65 category witnessed equally fierce competition. Marat Primbetov of Kazakhstan clinched the Gold Medal on superior tiebreaks with 6.5 points, ahead of FM Hossein Aryanejad of Iran, who also finished with 6.5 points to take Silver.

Randolph Schain of Cambodia earned the Bronze Medal with 6 points, while Aliasghar Akhavan Rad of Iran and FM Ali Jalal Adil of Iraq followed closely with 5.5 points each.

The Best Woman player in this category was WGM Galina Strutinskaia of Russia, who once again demonstrated her enduring class and skill at the top level.

Blitz Championship: Dominated by the Russian Players

The concluding Blitz Tournament merged both age divisions, producing fast-paced excitement as players battled for the final honors of the championship. Although the event brought both groups together, awards were given separately per age category. GM Ramil Hasangatin of Russia bounced back brilliantly to capture the Blitz title with 7.5 points, sharing the top score with WGM Galina Strutinskaia of Russia and FM Hossein Aryanejad of Iran.

In the Blitz Over-50 section, GM Ramil Hasangatin of Russia took the Gold Medal with 7.5 points, showcasing his trademark composure and precision under pressure. IM Hussein Ali Hussein Al-Ali of Iraq, maintaining his fine form from the standard event, earned the Silver Medal, while CM Salih Al-Aqrabi of Yemen secured the Bronze Medal, both finishing with 6.5 points after an intense race for the podium.

The Blitz Over-65 section brought another success for the Russian contingent, with WGM Galina Strutinskaia capturing the Gold Medal after an outstanding performance on 7.5 points. FM Hossein Aryanejad of Iran, a former national champion, earned his second Silver Medal of the tournament following his impressive consistency across both formats. CM Abdul Kareem Kashush of Iraq completed the podium with 6 points, proudly securing the Bronze Medal for the host nation.

In the Best Women category, Iraqi players continued to shine. Dilpak Ali Hamzah won the Gold Medal with 4 points, followed by WCM Jwan Jamal Mohammed Ameen, who took Silver with 3.5 points, and Bayan Jamal Mohammed Ameen, who secured Bronze with 3 points.

On the sidelines of the final rounds, Mr. Hisham Al Taher (second from left), General Secretary of the Asian Chess Federation, accompanied by Mr. Dhafer Madhloom (left), President of the Asian Zone 3.1 and the Iraqi Chess Federation, and Dr. Dlzar Hama Salih Qadir (right), President of the Khanzad Chess Club, paid a courtesy visit to Dr. Rebar Ahmed, Minister of Interior of the Kurdistan Region.

During the meeting, Mr. Hisham Al Taher presented the Asian Personality of the Year award to Dr. Rebar Ahmed, in recognition of the late Barzani’s selection as Asia’s Personality of the Year, acknowledging his enduring legacy and support for regional development and culture, including the promotion of chess in Kurdistan and Iraq.

The late Kurdish leader Mustafa Barzani playing chess with American journalist Dana Adam Schmidt, 1974. The moment immortalized in this historic image inspired the Asian Chess Federation’s 2025 Personality of the Year award honoring Barzani’s legacy.

As the curtain fell on the Asian Senior Chess Championships 2025, Erbil reaffirmed its place as one of Asia’s most welcoming and vibrant chess destinations — where legends of the game continue to write new chapters in the timeless story of chess.