World Schools Chess Championship 2025: Washington D.C. Hosts Global Youth Showdown

The world’s brightest young minds are converging on America’s capital for a historic battle of intellect and strategy. For the first time, the United States welcomes the World Schools Team Championship (WSTC) in August 2025, marking a pivotal expansion for this global chess phenomenon. Organized by the International Chess Federation (FIDE) and the newly established International School Chess Federation (ISCF), with crucial backing from Freedom Holding Corp., the event transforms Washington D.C. into an epicenter for youth chess excellence and educational innovation.

Building on a Foundation of Success

The WSTC’s journey began in August 2023 in Aktau, Kazakhstan. Spearheaded by FIDE and the Kazakhstan Chess Federation (KCF), the inaugural championship united over 400 students from 53 countries across four continents. Competing in under-12 and under-18 categories, these young players showcased chess’s universal appeal. The concept emerged during the intense 2023 World Chess Championship match between Ian Nepomniachtchi and Ding Linen. FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich and Timur Turlov, CEO of Freedom Holding Corp. and President of KCF, envisioned a platform to ignite global youth interest in chess. “Instilling a love for chess from childhood builds culture, discipline, and strategic thinking,” noted Dvorkovich in a 2023 FIDE press release. Turlov’s passion and commitment transformed this vision into reality, resulting in a resoundingly successful debut.

Washington D.C.: A Global Stage for Young Talent

The 2025 championship, scheduled for August 2-7 at the prestigious Episcopal High School near downtown Washington D.C., promises unprecedented scale. FIDE CEO Emil Sutovsky anticipates record participation: “The inaugural edition was a triumph. Now, we elevate it further, expecting teams from every continent.” National federations worldwide have nominated school teams, turning the event into a true cultural exchange. This U.S. debut coincides with a landmark development: the formal launch of the ISCF in September 2024. Endorsed by FIDE’s General Assembly and led by Timur Turlov, the ISCF aims to integrate chess into school curricula globally and unite national scholastic associations. “Behind every young player is a story of effort and curiosity,” Turlov emphasizes. “They deserve a global stage to share their love for strategy and challenge.”

Chess as an Educational Catalyst

Parallel to the championship, the inaugural Smart Moves Summit (August 4-5, 2025) will explore chess’s transformative role in education. Organized by ISCF and KCF under FIDE’s patronage, this conference gathers educators and experts to examine how chess enhances cognitive skills, creativity, and classroom learning. Research consistently supports chess’s benefits, including improved problem-solving and concentration in students. Turlov, whose company Freedom Holding Corp. champions the event, states, “Supporting these initiatives opens opportunities for the next generation. We’re proud to foster spaces where young minds connect and grow.” The summit underscores the championship’s broader mission: positioning chess not just as a game, but as a vital educational tool shaping future leaders.

This convergence of global youth talent and educational vision in Washington D.C. marks a watershed moment for scholastic chess. As young players navigate their opening moves at Episcopal High School, they embody a future where strategy, intellect, and cross-cultural connection reign supreme. Discover more about this landmark event through official FIDE and ISCF channels.

Must Know

What is the World Schools Team Championship (WSTC)?
The WSTC is a global team chess tournament for school-aged players, organized by FIDE. Teams represent their educational institutions and countries. The 2025 event in Washington D.C. is its second edition, following a successful 2023 debut in Kazakhstan involving 400+ students from 53 nations.

When and where is the 2025 WSTC happening?
The championship runs from August 2 to 7, 2025, at Episcopal High School, located approximately 11 km south of downtown Washington D.C., USA. This marks its first-ever hosting in the United States.

Who organizes the World Schools Chess Championship?
FIDE (International Chess Federation) co-organizes the event with the International School Chess Federation (ISCF), established in 2024. The ISCF, led by Timur Turlov, focuses on integrating chess into school systems worldwide. Freedom Holding Corp. provides key support.

What is the Smart Moves Summit?
Held alongside the WSTC on August 4–5, 2025, this inaugural educational summit examines chess’s role in cognitive development and classroom learning. It is organized by ISCF and KCF under FIDE’s guidance, featuring experts discussing strategy-based education.

How are teams selected for the championship?
National chess federations nominate school teams to represent their countries. Participants compete in two age categories: under-12 and under-18, fostering international camaraderie and competitive excellence.