Young chess stars gather in Shenzhen for 28th Asian Youth Chess Championship

Video by Jian Zhen

The 28th Asian Youth Chess Championship officially opened in Shenzhen's Longgang District today, bringing together nearly 1,000 young players from 30 countries and regions across Asia.

Participants gather in the competition hall at the 28th Asian Youth Chess Championship in Shenzhen on July 16. The tournament is the first major international chess event held in the city since the establishment of the FIDE Shenzhen Office in June. Photos courtesy of event organizer

Recognized as Asia's largest and most prestigious youth chess tournament, the championship provides a platform for Asia's rising chess talent to compete at the highest level while promoting friendship and cultural exchange through the game.

Jointly organized by the Asian Chess Federation, the Chess Sport Management Center of China's General Administration of Sport and the Chinese Chess Association, the event is supported by the Shenzhen Municipal Bureau of Culture, Media, Tourism and Sports and hosted by the Shenzhen Chess Association.

Asia's young chess talent at center stage

Hundreds of young players compete in the opening rounds of the 28th Asian Youth Chess Championship in Shenzhen's Longgang District. The championship features classical, rapid and blitz events across six age groups.

Officials from the Asian Chess Federation, the International Chess Federation (FIDE), the Chinese Chess Association and Shenzhen municipal government attended the opening ceremony, welcoming delegations from across Asia.

Speaking at the ceremony, organizers described the championship as more than a competition, emphasizing its role in nurturing young talent, strengthening regional friendship and advancing the development of chess across Asia.

The event is the first major international chess tournament hosted in Shenzhen since the establishment of the FIDE Shenzhen Office in June, highlighting the city's growing role in the global chess community and its commitment to expanding international sports cooperation.

The championship features classical, rapid and blitz competitions across six age groups, from Under 8 to Under 18, with open and girls' divisions. A total of 108 medals, including those for team events, will be awarded.  

More than a tournament: Building friendships across borders

Young players compete during the 28th Asian Youth Chess Championship in Longgang District on July 16. The tournament brings together nearly 1,000 players from 30 countries and regions across Asia.

Beyond the competition, the championship also offers opportunities for cultural exchange among young players from different countries and regions. During their stay, participants will have the opportunity to explore Shenzhen's innovation, culture and vibrant urban life, offering many of them a first-hand glimpse of the city.

For many participants, the championship is not only a chance to compete for medals but also an opportunity to exchange ideas, build friendships and experience different cultures through chess.

Shenzhen strengthens its global chess profile

The championship reflects Shenzhen's broader ambition to become an international hub for mind sports. Following the launch of the FIDE Shenzhen Office earlier this year, the city has continued to strengthen its international sporting profile by attracting major events and expanding cooperation with global sports organizations.

As nearly 1,000 young players gather around the chessboard, the championship serves not only as a contest of skill but also as a bridge connecting cultures across Asia. The tournament also showcases Shenzhen as an increasingly important destination for international sports, cultural exchange and youth engagement.