Kazakhstan's Bibisara Assaubayeva Nominated for Inaugural FIDE Excellence Awards

Kazakh chess prodigy Bibisara Assaubayeva has been nominated for the inaugural FIDE Excellence Awards, recognizing her achievements in the sport. The International Chess Federation (FIDE) announced on July 16 that the 22-year-old grandmaster is a contender in the Best Chess Player (Female) category. She is listed alongside prominent international players, including reigning world champion Ju Wenjun. Kazakhstan's strong presence in the chess world is further underscored by additional nominations. The Kazakhstan Chess Federation (KazChess) has been shortlisted for Best Federation, and the country's national men's and women's teams are nominated for Best Team. These nominations coincide with Kazakhstan's celebration of International Chess Day on July 20. The biennial FIDE Excellence Awards, established this year, aim to honor outstanding contributions to global chess over a two-year period. Winners will be chosen by an expert panel and announced in September during a ceremony in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, alongside the 46th FIDE Chess Olympiad. Chess is experiencing significant growth in Kazakhstan, boasting one of the world's fastest-growing chess communities. According to KazChess, more than 278,000 individuals regularly play chess across the country, with a substantial number, approximately 128,000, residing in rural areas. The sport is actively promoted through over 7,000 specialized chess clubs and is integrated into the curriculum of 1,500 schools, reaching over 50,000 children. With more than 5,500 Kazakh players holding official FIDE ratings, the highest in Central Asia, and regular participation in international tournaments, the nation is solidifying its position on the global chess stage.

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Kazakh chess player Bibisara Assaubayeva has been shortlisted for the inaugural FIDE Excellence Awards, the International Chess Federation (FIDE) announced on July 16, as Kazakhstan marks International Chess Day on July 20 with one of the world’s fastest-growing chess communities.