Press release by FIDE
The FIDE Commission for Women’s Chess has proudly commenced the opening ceremony for the Queen’s Gambit Challenge – Intermediate Stage, a transformative initiative aimed at empowering women in chess and enhancing their readiness for international representation. This event gathered participants from over 80 countries, reflecting the program’s global reach and commitment to inclusivity.
Focusing on free chess training, the Intermediate Stage is designed primarily for female players hailing from Levels 3, 4, and 5 federation countries. Participants will build upon their foundational skills and refine their techniques as they prepare for competitive play. The program features structured online training sessions led by experienced coaches, emphasizing practical middlegame and endgame strategies as well as thorough preparation for tournaments. Beyond improving participants’ chess abilities, the initiative also aims to equip them for future Chess Olympiad participation and foster international connections, creating a diverse and supportive environment for women in chess. To date, more than 580 women have signed up for the program.
The ceremony was officiated by Tris-Ann Richards, the Lead Coordinator, who emphasized the significant advancements made during the initial stage of the program and reiterated its mission to create opportunities for women within the chess community.
“Every move you make in this program is not just a step for yourself but a step forward for women’s chess globally,” stated Richards.
Anastasia Sorokina, Chair of the FIDE Commission for Women’s Chess, delivered remarks stressing the necessity for ongoing investment in the development of women in chess. She highlighted the importance of programs like the Queen’s Gambit Challenge in instilling confidence and establishing pathways for future representatives at the Olympiad.
Francisco Cruz, Vice President of FIDE America and Chair of the Diversity Commission, was also present. He commended the program for helping to bridge cultural and geographic divides, encouraging participants to view chess not merely as competition but as a means of personal development, resilience, and unity.
The lineup of coaches for this stage includes:
- Leonid Sandler
- Jomo Pitterson
- Khadidja Latreche Steel
- Shirley Castillo Sanchez
- Denise Bouah
- Deborah Richards Porter
- Russel Porter
- Sadiqah Razak
- Ryan Blackwood
- Milena Shahazizyan
The Intermediate Stage will take place from September 20 to November 2, 2025. It is structured to combine flexibility with rigor, with sessions offered in English, French, and Spanish, and tailored to accommodate various age groups and time zones.
The successful Opening Ceremony set a positive tone for a program that encompasses more than just chess; it symbolizes a global network of women united by their aspiration to improve their skills, strengthen their federations, and enhance women’s representation at the highest levels of the game.
The program will culminate in a closing ceremony scheduled for November 2, 2025. Following this, the next phase of the Queen’s Gambit Challenge will support National Female Teams preparing for their initial Olympiad, set to begin in March 2026.
