FIDE World Youth U14, U16 & U18 Championships 2025 Conclude with Celebration and Pride
The FIDE World Youth U14, U16 & U18 Championships 2025 came to a proud and emotional close in Durrës, Albania, after two unforgettable weeks of chess, friendship, and international unity. Held at the Grand Blue Fafa Resort, the event brought together 720 young players from 90 countries, all competing with determination, discipline, and respect.
After 11 intense rounds, the best young chess talents in the world were crowned across six categories.
🏆 U18 Open
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GM Siddharth Jagadeesh (Singapore)
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IM Artiom Stribuk (FIDE)
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IM Adarsh Uppala Sriram (India)
👑 U18 Girls
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WIM Gao Muziyan (China)
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WIM Manon Schippke (France)
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Valeria Kleymenova (FIDE)
🏅 U16 Open
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GM Edgar Mamedov (Kazakhstan)
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IM Sauat Nurgaliyev (Kazakhstan)
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FM Alexandr Volodin (FIDE)
🌟 U16 Girls
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WFM Diana Khafizova (FIDE)
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WFM Marija Kuznecova (Latvia)
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Chen Yining (China)
🔹 U14 Open
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FM Mark Smirnov (Kazakhstan)
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IM Haochen Jiang (China)
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CM Artem Lebedev (FIDE)
🌸 U14 Girls
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WFM Polina Smirnova (FIDE)
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Rukiya Olimova (Uzbekistan)
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Jamaicah Yap Mendoza (Philippines)
Each winner received their medal in a hall filled with cheers and pride. The young stars stood tall, representing not only their nations but also the bright future of world chess.
A Grand Closing Ceremony
The closing ceremony on October 15 was a heartwarming celebration of talent, teamwork, and global unity. It opened with the National Anthem of Albania and the FIDE Anthem, beautifully performed by the Durrës City Band.
Host Kozeta Kurti welcomed all participants, organizers, and guests, describing the championship as “a celebration of friendship, respect, and shared values that connect us all through sport and intellect.”
Grandmaster Erald Dervishi, President of the Albanian Chess Federation, proudly highlighted Albania’s growing place in world chess. He said,
“This tournament shows what passion, teamwork, and vision can achieve.”
The ceremony was attended by many distinguished guests, including:
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Bajram Begaj – President of the Republic of Albania
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Fidel Ylli – President of the National Olympic Committee of Albania
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Eduard Shalsi – Honorary President of the Albanian Chess Federation
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Gentian Kallmi – Deputy Mayor of Durrës
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Ozgur Solakoglu – FIDE Representative
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Fatos Çerenishti – President of FAFA Group
Their presence reflected how chess continues to grow as a tool for education, discipline, and cultural diplomacy.
Honoring Excellence and a New Partnership
A major highlight of the ceremony was the announcement of a new partnership between the Albanian Chess Federation and the Kasparov Chess Foundation Academy (KCF Academy). All category champions will receive full scholarships to a 164-hour online chess training program featuring lessons from legends like Garry Kasparov, Fabiano Caruana, Levon Aronian, and Veselin Topalov.
This partnership ensures that the champions’ learning journey continues far beyond the tournament hall.
A Cultural Celebration
The event also showcased Albania’s cultural spirit with traditional dances by the National Folk Ensemble and the Durrës Folk Group, delighting everyone with vibrant performances that celebrated local heritage and hospitality.
A Memorable Farewell
In her closing remarks, Kozeta Kurti thanked everyone for their passion and sportsmanship, saying:
“We congratulate all participants and champions. Have a good night — and see you at the next championship!”
A Legacy for the Future
The 2025 FIDE World Youth Championships leave behind more than trophies — they mark a new milestone for Albania as a growing hub for global chess and youth development. With the support of FIDE, FSHSH, KOKSH, Durrës Municipality, and national ministries, the event proved once again how chess unites minds and inspires generations.
🌐 Official Website: fideworldyouth.achf.org.al
Photos: Vlera Zenjullahi, Dardan Bajrami, FIDE_Chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
