Two teams named for 2026 FIDE Chess Olympiad

TWO NATIONALTEAMS will once again represent the SVG Chess Federation at the FIDE Chess Olympiad, scheduled for 15–28 September 2026 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The FIDE Chess Olympiad is the world’s largest international team chess competition, organized biennially by the International Chess Federation (FIDE). It brings together teams from more than 180 countries, making it the “World Cup of Chess” a global stage where nations showcase their talent, resilience, and unity through the sport.

The SVG Chess Federation said in a release that this year’s participation is especially meaningful, as the Federation celebrates the inclusion of three youth players, alongside seasoned competitors and a female team led by a female Grandmaster as team coach/captain. The diverse age range across both teams reflects the Federation’s commitment to blending experience with youthful energy, ensuring that knowledge is passed on while new talent gains invaluable international exposure. The Open Team comprises Brian Cottle, player/captain; Vedant Shetty; Oris Robinson; Glendon Swift; and Jahnyiah

Gumbs; with coach CM Nagare.The female team comprises Ronnia Durham-Balcombe; Molissa Ashton; Stacy Baptiste; Arianna Balcombe; and Kazene Pierre. The coach/team captain is WGM Kateřina Němcová.

The Federation said the diversity of age groups strengthens the teams by combining wisdom, resilience, and tactical maturity with the creativity, ambition, and fresh perspective of youth.

“The representation of women further demonstrates the Federation’s commitment to inclusivity and equality in chess. Together, these teams embody national pride, resilience, and the promise of a brighter future for Vincentian chess”.