7-Year-Old Chess Prodigy from Kazakhstan Triumphs at FIDE Championship
Kazakhstan Dominates 2025 FIDE World School Chess Championship
Astana, Kazakhstan emerged as the top-performing nation at the 2025 International Chess Federation (FIDE) World School Chess Championship, showcasing exceptional talent and skill across multiple age categories. The championship, held from March 19 to 29 in Vrnjačka Banja, Serbia, saw Kazakhstan secure an impressive four gold, three silver, and one bronze medal in twelve tournaments.
One of the standout performers was seven-year-old chess prodigy Abdul-Malik Kairat from Astana, who claimed victory in the Open U7 category. Abdul-Malik demonstrated his prowess by defeating India’s Om Esh Gottumukala in a crucial fifth-round match and finishing with eight points in eight rounds, securing the championship title.
India also had a strong showing at the championship, with Pragnika Vaka Lakshmi dominating the Girls U7 category with eight straight victories and a two-point lead over her competitors.
Aside from Abdul-Malik Kairat’s success, Kazakhstan’s other gold medalists include Alisha Bissaliyeva in Girls U9, Alimzhan Zhauynbay in Open U11, and Artyom Bogdanov in Open U17. Silver medals were awarded to Nurislam Sultankhan in Open U9, Khanzada Amanzhol in Girls U13, and Malika Japparbekova in Girls U15, while Nurmukhammed Kabinazar claimed bronze in Open U15.
In total, 470 young competitors from 43 national federations participated in the championship, showcasing the growing interest and talent in the world of school chess. Kazakhstan’s impressive performance highlights the country’s dedication to nurturing young chess talents and its commitment to excellence in the sport.
