FIDE Introduces New World Cadet Championship Cycle U8–U12 from 2026
From 2026, FIDE is launching a new and improved World Cadet Championship cycle for Under 8, Under 10, and Under 12 categories. Big changes are coming for young chess players.
This new system is designed to:
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Strengthen the global pathway for young chess players
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Make youth competitions clearer and more prestigious
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Create a strong and fair qualification structure
This is a major step for junior chess development worldwide.
Two Major Events in the New Cycle
The new format clearly separates qualification and final stages.
1️⃣ FIDE World Cadets Cup U8–U12
The event previously known as the World Cadet Championship U8–U12 has been renamed the FIDE World Cadets Cup U8–U12.
What stays the same?
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Same competitive format
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Same playing conditions
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Separate tournaments for boys and girls
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Age categories: U8, U10, U12
What changes?
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The event now officially serves as a qualifying tournament.
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It becomes the gateway to the World Cadets Championships.
The first edition under this new structure will be held from June 15–28, 2026 in Batumi, Georgia. Batumi is a trusted chess destination. It previously hosted the Chess Olympiad and many top FIDE events.
2️⃣ FIDE World Cadets Championships U8, U10, U12 (Final Stage)
The final stage will take place from November 10–17, 2026. This is an elite event. Only 48 players will compete in total.
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8 players per age category
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Separate sections for boys and girls
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Titles of World Champion will be decided here
All players qualify by personal right and receive free full-board accommodation.
Who Can Play in the FIDE World Cadets Cup?
Each national federation can nominate:
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1 invited player per age category
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Separate nominations for boys and girls
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Maximum of 6 players
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1 head of delegation (with valid FIDE ID)
Additional invited players include:
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Top 3 finishers from previous World Cadets Championships
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Top 3 finishers from previous World Cadets Cup
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Continental Cadet Champions
Federations can also register extra players (subject to approval and costs covered by the federation). FIDE-affiliated organizations and endorsed chess academies may also register players through their national federations.
Qualification for the Final World Cadets Championships
The 48-player field will be selected as follows:
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3 spots – Winners of the FIDE World Cadets Cup
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4 spots – One nomination from each continent
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1 spot – Nomination from the organizing federation
This ensures that only the strongest young players from around the world reach the final stage.
Important Dates to Remember
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April 15, 2026 – Registration deadline for federations
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June 15–28, 2026 – FIDE World Cadets Cup U8–U12
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November 10–17, 2026 – FIDE World Cadets Championships (Final Stage)
Why This New Structure Matters
This new championship cycle:
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Creates a clear qualification pathway
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Raises the prestige of youth chess events
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Gives young players global exposure
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Strengthens international competition at early ages
FIDE continues to show strong commitment to developing chess talent from the grassroots level. For young champions dreaming of a world title, the journey now has a clearer and stronger path. The road to becoming a World Cadet Champion starts in 2026.
Photos: FIDE_Chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
