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World Under-16 Chess Olympiad Opens in Barranquilla, Colombia
The World Under-16 Chess Olympiad has officially begun in Barranquilla, Colombia! The grand opening ceremony took place at the Elías Chegwin Coliseum, bringing together young chess talents from across the globe.
A total of 45 countries and 86 teams are participating in this prestigious youth chess event. The colorful parade of flags filled the arena with excitement, marking the start of the tournament.
The evening was filled with music, culture, and celebration. The highlight was a spectacular performance by the winner of Yo me llamo Shakira, which thrilled the audience.
Many important guests attended the ceremony, including leaders from the International Chess Federation (FIDE) and FIDE America. Their presence showed strong international support for the growth of chess in Colombia.
Distinguished figures such as José Carrillo Pujol (President of FIDE America), Akaki Iashvili (FIDE Special Tasks Director), Victor Bologan (FIDE Executive Director), Dr. Vivi Barguil, Weymar Muñoz (President of the Colombian Chess Federation), and Daniel Trujillo (Sports Secretary) were all present.
To officially begin the Olympiad, Victor Bologan and José Carrillo Pujol made the first ceremonial moves on the board.
The Colombian Chess Federation expressed deep gratitude to everyone who made the event possible, especially the sponsors, for turning Barranquilla into the epicenter of world youth chess.
🌐 Official Website: youtholympiad2025.fide.com
Photos: Federación Colombiana de Ajedrez
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
