From April 6 to 11, 2026, Almaty will temporarily become the chess capital of Asia.
At the legendary Hotel Kazakhstan — a symbol of the city rising proudly against the snowy peaks of the Zailiyskiy Alatau — the Asian Continental Stage of the World Schools Team Championship 2026 will take place, DKNews.kz reports.
The global tournament series is sponsored by Freedom Holding Corp..
But this is more than just another chess competition.
A New Era for School Chess Begins in Asia
For the first time in history, the world school chess cycle — announced by FIDE and the International School Chess Federation — will begin in Asia. And it begins in Almaty.
Until now, the World Schools Team Championship was traditionally held in a single location, bringing together teams from across the globe at once. In 2026, however, a new continental format will reshape the competition.
Four continents. Four champions. One final battle.
Separate qualifying stages in Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas will determine the strongest school team from each region. Then, in December 2026, the four continental champions will face off in a dramatic Grand Final — competing for world gold.
Almaty has been given the honor of opening the entire global cycle.
The Stakes: Asian Title and a Ticket to the World Final
The strongest school teams from across Asia — winners of national qualifiers in dozens of countries — will arrive in Kazakhstan. Each team will represent not only their country but their school community.
The prize?
The title of Asian Champion — and a coveted spot in the World Grand Final.
For many young players, this will be the most important tournament of their lives so far.
2026: The Year of Chess in Education
The year 2026 has officially been declared the Year of Chess in Education.
Why does this matter?
Because chess is no longer seen as just a game. At the board, children develop:
- Logical and strategic thinking
- Focus and emotional resilience
- Teamwork skills
- The ability to make decisions under pressure
This philosophy stands at the heart of the new championship cycle.
Not Just a Tournament — A Festival of Ideas
The program in Almaty will extend far beyond competitive rounds.
Participants and guests can expect:
- Masterclasses from grandmasters and world-class coaches
- Educational sessions for teachers and parents
- Interactive workshops showing how chess can transform learning
- A vibrant cultural program introducing visitors to Kazakh hospitality and the beauty of Almaty
It will be a celebration of intellect, culture, and international friendship.
“More Than a Competition”
Timur Turlov, President of the International School Chess Federation and the Kazakhstan Chess Federation, emphasized the broader mission of the event:
“Each of us can learn from others and share our experience. When children from different countries meet at the chessboard, it is more than a competition — it is an exchange of knowledge, ideas and culture. We are building an environment where not only strong players grow, but confident, open-minded personalities. ISCF is proud to collaborate with FIDE and looks forward with enthusiasm to the events of the Year of Chess in Education.”
Why Almaty?
Kazakhstan has long established itself as one of the leaders in chess development. Hosting the first stage of the new global cycle is recognition of the country’s growing international authority in both sport and education.
With 201 member nations under the motto “Gens una sumus” — “We are one family” — FIDE continues to expand chess diplomacy worldwide. ISCF, founded in 2024 as a FIDE-affiliated organization, represents a new focus on school-level international cooperation.
Choosing Almaty was no coincidence.
The iconic Hotel Kazakhstan offers a unique setting: historic architecture, modern comfort, and breathtaking mountain views — a backdrop where young players will not only compete, but build friendships that cross borders.
A Bridge Between Generations and Continents
In April 2026, Almaty will welcome dozens of teams and hundreds of participants. The city is preparing for an event that promises to be more than a championship.
It will be a festival of intelligence, unity, and the future.
Kazakhstan once again demonstrates that chess is not merely a hobby — it is a powerful bridge between generations, cultures, and continents.
And the first step of that bridge in 2026 begins here — in the heart of Asia, in Almaty.
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