As the World Rapid and Blitz Championships approach, Doha will host the leading figures of women’s chess alongside the wider elite. From established world champions to Grand Prix winners and fast-time-control specialists, the women’s field reflects both depth and continuity at the top of the game. This article outlines the key contenders arriving in Qatar, […]
Monthly Archives: December 2025
The round-robin phase of the Global Chess League has been decided at the top, with Triveni Continental Kings finishing first and securing a place in the Final with one round to go. The remaining berth in the final match will be determined on Monday, with the Alpine SG Pipers now the frontrunners in this battle […]
We take a unique behind-the-scenes look at how top chess masters organize their digital workspace. Grandmasters and trainers reveal their personal ChessBase 26 setups — from meticulously clean desktops to chaotic databases full of ideas. They show us their board designs, current projects, and discuss their favourite or most-used ChessBase functions, offering fascinating insights into […]
Day seven of the Global Chess League produced a clearer picture at the top of the table, with the leaders, Triveni Continental Kings, opening a commanding gap over the rest of the field. A heavy defeat for one of the main challengers, upGrad Mumba Masters, reshaped the standings, while several tightly contested matches kept the […]
Vladimir Fedoseev was one of the first Russian chess players to speak out critically against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. He switched to the Slovenian association and never wants to represent Russia again. The Russian Minister of Sport has now stripped him of his Russian honorary titles. | Photo: Lennart Ootes
In Part Two of his review of the Opening Encyclopaedia 2025, Nagesh Havanur explores the nuanced world of Semi-Open Games. From the dynamic Sicilian Defence to the “quiet” Caro-Kann, each defence offers distinct challenges and strategies. As our author transitions to Closed Games in his next instalment, he offers much practical advice for the aspiring […]
The Global Chess League moved into the second half of its round-robin phase with a heavier daily schedule and immediate consequences in the standings. Teams began playing twice per day, producing mixed results for those facing the added workload. While Triveni Continental Kings remain in front, Alireza Firouzja’s streak came to an end. With three […]
Alongside the established elite, the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Championships in Doha will feature a remarkable group of rising talents from around the world. Teenagers and even younger players will compete on equal terms with the game’s biggest names, many already boasting grandmaster titles and major international results. This article highlights the most promising […]
The 2025 Hungarian National Individual Chess Championships took place in Budapest from 10 to 18 December, featuring open and women’s events played as 10-player round-robins. Despite a few high-profile absences, both tournaments produced closely contested races. The open title went to 21-year-old Gleb Dudin, while the women’s championship was decided on tiebreaks, with Szidonia Lazarne […]
The Global Chess League reached a turning point as the first half of the double round-robin came to an end in Mumbai. Triveni Continental Kings emerged as the sole leaders after defeating their closest rivals, upGrad Mumba Masters. The defending champions were again led by Alireza Firouzja, who maintained a perfect record by winning his […]