"VAN" (Sports Desk - 26.10.2025) :: The 2nd Chess Olympiad for People with Disabilities concluded today in Astana, marking a historic celebration of inclusivity, determination, and unity – coinciding with the Republic Day of Kazakhstan.
The final day began with a vibrant cultural performance featuring traditional Kazakh dances, music, and local cuisine, creating a festive atmosphere for the participants. The ceremonial first move was made by Andrey Gromov, President of the International Physically Disabled Chess Association (IPCA), together with Gulmira Dauletova, Executive Director of the Kazakhstan Chess Federation (KazChess).
“It’s the first time Kazakhstan has organised such an event,” said Gulmira Dauletova. “After hosting the World Cadets Championship just weeks ago, preparing this Olympiad in only 20 days was a huge challenge – but our team worked tirelessly, and we are proud that everything went so well. The players are happy, and that means everything to us.”
“Our main goal was to create smiles. Seeing the players enjoy themselves, especially during moments like our ‘Hug Day,’ was the most rewarding part,” she added.
A short but powerful history
The Chess Olympiad for People with Disabilities has a brief yet inspiring history. It began in 2020 with the first Online Olympiad, which saw 61 teams from 45 countries and nearly 400 players – Poland took gold in that inaugural edition.
Three years later, the dream of meeting over the board became reality in Belgrade, Serbia, where 23 teams competed in the first in-person event – Poland once again emerged victorious. This year in Astana, the Olympiad reached a record 34 participating teams, making it the largest and most inclusive edition to date.
The story continues: starting in 2026, the Olympiad for People with Disabilities will be held alongside the main Chess Olympiad, beginning in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
“For me, it’s special that chess allows people with all kinds of abilities to compete on an equal footing,” said Dana Reizniece, FIDE Deputy Chair of the Management Board. “Chess is one of the most inclusive sports in the world – and aligning these Olympiads ensures that everyone remains part of the same global chess family.”
Thomas Luther, Chairman of the FIDE Commission for People with Disabilities, added: “From next year, the Olympiad for People with Disabilities will take place alongside the main Olympiad and the FIDE Congress – a major step that guarantees the continuity and growth of this event.”
Stories of Inspiration
Inclusivity in chess extends to every corner of the world. Blessing Jemani, captain of the Zimbabwean team, shared a powerful story about his young student Tinashe Mvududu, who plays chess using his legs.
“He teaches us that disability is not inability,” said Jemani. “He’s an inspiration to our entire chess community – and though he couldn’t join us this year, we hope to see him competing next year in Uzbekistan.”
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