The World Schools Team Chess Championship (WSTC 2025) concluded in the United States, marking a milestone in the international chess calendar. Organized by the International School Chess Federation (ISCF) with support from FIDE and Freedom Holding Corp., the event brought together more than 50 national teams from 40 countries. It was not only a high-level competition of strategic skill but also a demonstration of how chess is becoming a central element in the global educational agenda.
Success of the U.S. Team
The United States secured third place, highlighting significant progress in its school chess development system. Key contributors included Arnav Solan (reserve) and Tori Porat (Board 3), whose victories against strong opponents were crucial for the team’s performance. Jonathan Reyes and Sophia Lin added important tactical wins, particularly in the semifinal match against Germany.
David Hayter of the U.S. Chess Federation noted that this result reflects systemic growth: over the past two years, the number of school chess clubs in the U.S. has increased by 30%, leading to tangible international achievements.
Winners
1st place – India (Velammal MHS School): Gold medals for A. R. Ilamparthi (Board 4) and Pranav K. P. (Reserve, Board 5) with a perfect 8/8 score, making him one of only three undefeated players in the tournament.
2nd place – Kazakhstan (National School of Physics and Mathematics): Gold for Imangali Akhilbay (Board 2, 8/8).
3rd place – USA (The Harker School).
Individual Highlights Across All Teams:
Board 1 — Gold: Gabriel Gabadadze (Georgia)
Board 2 — Gold: Imangali Akhilbay (Kazakhstan, 8/8)
Board 3 — Gold: Edisa Berdibaeva (Kyrgyzstan, 8/8)
Board 4 — Gold: A. R. Ilamparthi (India)
Board 5 (Reserve) — Gold: Pranav K. P. (India, 8/8)
Smart Moves Summit and the Role of Chess in Education
Alongside the tournament, the Smart Moves Summit brought together experts, educators, and policymakers to discuss integrating chess into school curricula worldwide.
FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich announced:
“With 2026 declared the Year of Chess in Schools, we aim to make chess a key tool for developing critical thinking — essential for the digital age. Thanks to the support of Freedom Holding Corp., we are opening a new chapter in educational history.”
Timur Turlov, President of ISCF and CEO of Freedom Holding Corp., emphasized:
“Since 2023, we have been investing in chess as a platform where children can compete, learn, and connect across cultures. Chess is not just a game — it’s an educational bridge that shapes future leaders.”
Freedom Holding Corp.’s Contribution
As the championship’s general partner, Freedom Holding Corp. funded the technological infrastructure, including global online broadcasting and AI-powered game analytics. The company also supported free chess programs for 15,000 schoolchildren in Kazakhstan and promoted the tournament through a documentary about the Kazakh team, which gained over 500,000 views in its first week.
“The first WSTC in 2023 in Aktau laid the foundation for today’s success. We will continue investing to ensure that every child, regardless of geography, has access to this intellectual sport,” said Timur Turlov.
The 2025 championship became a symbol of chess globalization. The achievements of the USA, alongside India’s historic victory and Kazakhstan’s strong performance, prove that systematic investment in education and infrastructure yields lasting results. As Arkady Dvorkovich concluded:
“Chess unites young minds and builds a generation capable of solving complex problems. This is not just a sport — it’s the language of the future.”
