Mid-Tournament Review – FIDE World Youth U14, U16 & U18 Championships 2025, Durrës, Albania
As the FIDE World Youth Chess Championships 2025 reach their halfway mark in Durrës, the atmosphere remains electric. Hundreds of young players from across the world are battling round after round with determination, discipline, and sportsmanship embodying the spirit of chess that unites nations beyond borders.
The Grand Blue Fafa Resort, beautifully set on the Adriatic coast, has become a vibrant home for chess this week. Inside the playing hall, the silence is filled with focus, while outside, friendships and exchanges between cultures highlight the universal language of chess.
“It’s a Good Time for Chess Around the Globe”
In his remarks during the championship, FIDE President expressed optimism and pride in the current growth of chess worldwide:
“I think it’s a good time for chess around the globe. We have so many events various levels for top players, young players, senior players, and team competitions. Every month there are several events under the FIDE umbrella, and many federations are developing quite successfully especially in Asia, with countries like Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkey, and others.”
He also emphasized the social and educational mission of chess, noting how governments are increasingly recognizing its power to teach focus, logic, and resilience:
“It’s not just about playing chess or professional competition. The social mission of chess is developing, especially in education. We are trying to make sure it’s inclusive, that everyone is in one boat — and that the boat keeps moving forward.”
A Message to the Young Players
The FIDE President took a moment to share a personal message with the young participants, who represent the future of the game:
“Young players are the future of our chess. I can see they are really fighting, developing their skills, and even using AI tools to train it’s a different world now. But I hope they also continue learning from good coaches, going deeper into the game. My message is simple: keep your love for chess alive. Play with joy, have fun, and through that, you will become great champions.”
Albania’s Warm Hospitality
He expressed gratitude toward the hosts, acknowledging the strong efforts of the Albanian Chess Federation (FSHSH):
“I would like to thank Albania for hosting this great event in such a nice environment. Our Albanian friends are making sure that everyone feels comfortable here, showing their best talents. We hope to have even bigger events in Albania in the future.”
Halfway Through: Excitement Builds
With the tournament now past its midpoint, early leaders are beginning to emerge in all categories but every round continues to bring surprises. Coaches, arbiters, and parents fill the venue with encouragement, while FIDE officials highlight the importance of such events in nurturing future champions.
As the FIDE World Youth Chess Championships 2025 move into the decisive rounds, all eyes are on Durrës where the next generation of chess greatness is taking shape.
