FIDE, in collaboration with the Turkish Chess Federation, is excited to announce the FIDE World U9–U17 Rapid and Blitz Championships 2025, set to take place in the beautiful city of Antalya, Türkiye. This prestigious event will gather young chess talents from around the globe, providing them with a platform to showcase their skills and compete for top honors. Teams are expected to arrive on December 15 and will depart on December 21, 2025.
Event Details and Participation
The championships will feature five distinct age groups: U9, U11, U13, U15, and U17, with separate sections for both open and girls’ categories. This structure ensures that young players can compete against their peers, fostering a spirit of sportsmanship and healthy competition.
All federations that are members of FIDE are invited to enter participants, and notably, there is no limit on the number of players a federation may register. This open approach encourages widespread participation and helps identify emerging chess talents from various countries.
Importantly, players who finished in the top three positions at the 2024 FIDE World School Rapid and Blitz Championships will have the privilege of earning a personal right to compete in the same age category or a higher one, provided they meet the age requirement as of January 1, 2025. This rule incentivizes young players to perform at their best in previous events, as their efforts can lead to opportunities in future competitions.
Those interested in participating should be mindful of the registration deadline, which is set for October 15, 2025. Ensuring timely registration will be vital for players and federations looking to take part in this exciting event.
The FIDE World U9–U17 Rapid and Blitz Championships promises to be a remarkable gathering of young chess enthusiasts, offering a unique experience in a stunning location. We look forward to welcoming players, coaches, and chess fans to Antalya, where the next generation of chess champions will be born.