World Senior Team Championships: USA and England crowned champions

The World Senior Team Chess Championship took place in Prague from February 16–27, 2025. Following ten days and nine thrilling rounds of competition, winners were determined in each category.

50+ Category

In the 50+ category, the top-seeded team from the USA (GM Ehlvest, GM Kaidanov, GM Shabalov, GM Novikov, and IM Rachels) claimed first place. They achieved 15 out of a possible 18 match points, securing victory with a final-round win against the German team Confluentia.

Italy (GM David, GM Godena, IM Bellini, IM Bellia, and IM D’Amore) also won their final match against Hungary and matched the USA’s score. However, Italy was awarded the silver medal due to lower game points in the tie-breaks.

Kazakhstan (GM Kazhgaleyev, GM Kotsur, GM Temirbayev, IM Tikzhanov, and IM Min), who were leading after eight rounds, faced England 1 in a challenging final round. The match ended in a draw after closely contested games on all boards, resulting in Kazakhstan taking bronze, and England 1 finishing fourth.

Team USA facing Confluentia from Germany in the final round

Several players had outstanding performances throughout the event. GM Michael Adams achieved a score of 6½/8 on the top board for England, only losing to GM Lubomir Ftacnik in round seven, earning him the gold medal for board one.

GM Pavel Kotsur (Kazakhstan) won gold on board two, while GM Alexander Shabalov (USA) secured gold on board three. GM Mark Hebden (England) dominated board four. IM Carlo D’Amore made a significant contribution to Italy’s success, winning the reserve board medal.

The legendary Michael Adams

Final standings – 50+ category

…54 teams