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Marc’Andria Maurizzi and Yosha Iglesias Crowned 2025 French Chess Champions
The 2025 French Chess Championship ended with two new champions. Marc’Andria Maurizzi won the Open Section, while Yosha Iglesias claimed the Women’s Section. Both players secured their first-ever national titles.
A Prestigious Event in Vichy
The championship took place from August 15–24 in Vichy, France. It featured a 16-player knockout format in both the open and women’s events. If the two classical games ended in a tie, players battled in rapid, blitz, or even Armageddon games. France’s top stars participated, except Alireza Firouzja and Maxime Vachier-Lagrave, who were busy at the 2025 Sinquefield Cup.
Maurizzi Shines in the Open Section
Marc’Andria Maurizzi, the youngest participant, faced veteran players on his way to the title.
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He beat Christian Bauer in the Round of 16.
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He then defeated Timothé Razafindratsima in the quarterfinals.
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In the semifinals, he overcame Étienne Bacrot after a tense rapid tiebreak.
In the final, Maurizzi battled Laurent Fressinet, last year’s runner-up. After three straight draws, Maurizzi struck in the fourth game to win the championship. Bacrot finished with the bronze medal, defeating Sébastien Mazé.
Iglesias Triumphs in the Women’s Section
Yosha Iglesias had a dramatic start. She narrowly advanced past Marie Leconte in the Round of 16. After that, her road became smoother.
Her final opponent was Mitra Hejazipour, who had eliminated:
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Cyrielle Monpeurt
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Andreea Navrotescu
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Defending champion Deimantė Daulytė-Cornette
The women’s final needed no tiebreak. The first classical game was a draw, but Iglesias won the second game to claim the title.
In the fight for third place, Anastasia Savina defeated Daulytė-Cornette in a tiebreak to win the bronze medal.
A New Era for French Chess
The 2025 French Championship was filled with surprises, drama, and fighting spirit. For the first time, both champions — Maurizzi and Iglesias — lifted the national trophy. Their victories mark a new chapter for French chess.
Photos: FFE / Nathalie Daubry
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
