The FIDE World Cadet and Youth Rapid & Blitz Championships 2026

The FIDE World Cadet and Youth Rapid & Blitz Championships 2026 has delivered thrilling action in its rapid chess section. After three intense days and 11 rounds, the rapid format has officially come to an end. This marks the completion of the first half of the six-day championship.

A total of 432 young players from 40 countries participated in the event. Out of them, 72 players from 11 federations won medals, making it a highly competitive tournament.

Kazakhstan emerged as the biggest winner in the rapid section. Their players delivered an outstanding performance, winning:

• 5 gold medals
• 4 silver medals
• 2 bronze medals

Russia followed with a strong showing as well, collecting:

• 2 gold medals
• 4 silver medals
• 4 bronze medals

Two top-seeded players lived up to expectations and secured gold medals in their categories:

• Aldiyar Ansat (Kazakhstan) won the Under-18 Open section
• Afruza Khamdamova (Uzbekistan) won the Under-18 Girls section

Both players proved their strength by finishing at the top and confirming their status as favorites.

The tournament now moves into its next phase. While a few players will take a rest day, most participants will compete in the upcoming team event. So far, 50 teams have already registered, promising more exciting action ahead.