The possibility of creating a modern chess palace in New Tashkent is being considered. It will accommodate 500 people and include a playing hall, dormitory, and sports grounds. This idea was voiced by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev during a meeting with representatives of the Uzbekistan national chess and para-chess teams held at the 'Kuksaray' residence.
The initiative emerged against the backdrop of recent successes by Uzbek chess players. Four years ago, the national team won its first chess Olympiad in Chennai (India). In 2024, the team took third place in Budapest, and recently achieved another gold victory in Samarkand.
Systemic Support for Chess
The head of state emphasized that the achieved results are the outcome of systematic work. He noted that there were many talented chess players in the country previously, but they lacked an organized system for support and unification. After a decision was made in 2018, the development of chess teaching in schools, as well as the work of coaches and clubs, began.
To further strengthen the training system, three regional branches of the Tashkent International Chess Academy will be established in the Samarkand, Khorezm, and Fergana regions. This academy will also conduct training for top-category coaches.
The state has also provided support measures for young athletes: half of the costs for training in private chess clubs will be covered for those who have achieved more than 1,500 points in the FIDE rating.
Furthermore, Uzbekistan plans to regularly organize international competitions under its own brand, O‘zbekiston Grand chess, which will give local players the opportunity to compete against strong opponents at home.
Special attention will be paid to identifying young talents: early detection of capable children in regions, districts, and mahallas, their attachment to qualified coaches, and the creation of conditions for their regular participation in international tournaments are planned. A separate program for the development of women's and para-chess will also be developed.
Over the last decade, 17 Uzbek chess players have received the title of international grandmaster, five of whom are women. The President noted the youth of the current champions and the growing number of talented children.
Previously, the country set a goal to enter the top ten world powers according to the FIDE rating, which, according to Mirziyoyev, has already been achieved. The next goal is formulated more broadly: to transform New Uzbekistan not just into a country of Olympic champions, but into a global chess center.