FIDE World Youth Championships 2025 Hit the Halfway Mark
The FIDE World Youth Chess Championships 2025 have reached the midpoint in Durrës, Albania. The energy at the venue is still high as hundreds of young players continue to compete with focus, discipline, and great sportsmanship. Chess has once again shown its power to unite people across borders.
Six rounds have been completed, and every category has seen tough competition. After Round 6, only three players have taken sole leads in their respective sections:
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GM Jagadeesh Siddharth (Singapore) is leading the U18 Open.
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WIM Manon Schippke (France) is ahead in the U18 Girls.
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FM Mark Smirnov (Kazakhstan) tops the U14 Open.
All three players have scored an impressive 5.5 out of 6.
In the remaining three categories, at least two players are tied for first place. The only rest day of the tournament is scheduled for October 10, giving players a much-needed break before the final and decisive three rounds.
Categories in the event include: U14 Girls, U14 Open, U16 Girls, U16 Open, U18 Girls, U18 Open
“It’s a Good Time for Chess Worldwide”
FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich shared his thoughts during the event. He spoke proudly about the growth of chess across the globe.
He said that chess is thriving at all levels — from youth and senior events to top tournaments and team championships. He highlighted Asia as one of the fastest-growing regions, with countries like Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkey making strong progress.
Dvorkovich also pointed out the educational and social impact of chess. He mentioned that more governments now understand how chess teaches focus, logic, and resilience.
He added, “We want chess to be inclusive. Everyone should feel they are in the same boat — and that boat should keep moving forward.”
A Message for Young Players
The FIDE President also spoke directly to the young talents participating in the championship. He called them the future of the game.
He noted how modern players are using new tools like AI to train but also encouraged them to keep learning from good coaches and studying deeply.
His message was simple and inspiring:
Keep your love for chess alive. Play with joy, have fun, and through that, you will become great champions.
Albania’s Warm Welcome
Dvorkovich thanked Albania and the Albanian Chess Federation for their excellent hosting. He praised the efforts made to ensure players and guests feel comfortable and appreciated the hospitality shown.
He also expressed hope that Albania will host even bigger events in the future.
Official website: fideworldyouth.achf.org.al/
Photos: Vlera Zenjullahi, Dardan Bajrami
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
