The Spanish Championship 2023: Iturrizaga and Khademalsharieh Rise to the Occasion
The world of chess witnessed a grand spectacle in the Spanish Championship of 2023, where
two outstanding players, GM Eduardo Iturrizaga and IM Sarasadat Khademalsharieh, took
center stage, each clinching their respective titles with exceptional performances.
Spotlight on the Legendary Chess Arbiter: Geurt Gijssen
Born in 1934, Geurt Gijssen stands as a towering figure in the global chess community. His esteemed reputation as a chess arbiter is highlighted by his role as the chief arbiter for the iconic World Championship match between chess legends Kasparov and Karpov in 1987. With numerous world championships and Chess Olympiads under his belt, he also chaired the FIDE rules commission for two decades.
Arkady Dvorkovich: Five Years as FIDE’s President
It’s been half a decade since Arkady Dvorkovich was chosen as the leader of FIDE, the global governing body for chess. His election in 2018 in Batumi, Georgia, marked the beginning of a new era for the International Chess Federation. He was re-elected in 2022 in Chennai, India, succeeding the long-standing president, Kirsan Ilyumzhinov.
When Dvorkovich took the reins, he presented a vision of reviving FIDE’s dignity and function. His agenda highlighted greater accountability, reduced bureaucracy, lowered fees for national chess bodies, and enhanced support for chess growth.
Iranian GMs Hejazipour and Pourkashiyan in Exile: A Tale of Strength and Resilience
Mitra Hejazipour’s game against Atousa Pourkashiyan at the World Team Chess Championship was not just a battle for bronze between France and the US. It was a poignant reflection of their shared journey – two grandmasters from Iran, united by their love for chess and their decision to live in exile.
Clash of Titans in Durrës (Magnus Carlsen vs. Vishy Anand) : European Club Cup 2023 Durrës, Albania
Get ready, chess enthusiasts! From 30 September to 7 October, the sandy beaches of Durrës, Albania will resonate with the echoes of moving pieces. Norwegian sensation Magnus Carlsen will represent his club, Offerspill. Meanwhile, the Romanian super team, Superchess, boasts a spectacular average rating, thanks in part to legends like Vishy Anand and Richard Rapport.
FIDE’s 100-Year Anniversary: A Century of Chess Excellence
2024 marks a significant milestone for the International Chess Federation (FIDE) as it celebrates its 100th anniversary. Established on July 20, 1924, in the heart of Paris, France, FIDE’s journey began with fifteen visionary delegates. These pioneers came together at the Town Hall of the IX Arrondissement of Paris and took the first step towards creating a unified chess community.