The international "Turkic Team Chess Championships 2026" has kicked off in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, as part of the Turkic States Chess Forum. Men's and women's teams will compete for victory in this prestigious event held from May 13–17.
The competition serves as an important platform for chess players from Turkic states, focusing not only on sports results but also on cooperation, experience exchange, and strengthening ties between chess schools.
The tournament's total prize fund is 42,000 USD. The winning teams in both the men's and women's categories will each receive a prize of 21,000 USD, highlighting the prestige and high level of competition.
The Uzbekistan men's national team features experienced and strong chess players. The team includes Grandmasters Abdimalik Abdisalimov, Jahongir Vohidov, Ortiq Nigmatov, as well as International Masters Saidakbar Saidaliyev and Asrorjon Omonov.
Men's national team roster:
Abdimalik Abdisalimov — Grandmaster, 2530 rating
Jahongir Vohidov — Grandmaster, 2515 rating
Ortiq Nigmatov — Grandmaster, 2470 rating
Saidakbar Saidaliyev — International Master, 2454 rating
Asrorjon Omonov — International Master, 2345 rating
The women's national team is also entering the competition with a strong lineup. Afruza Hamdamova, Umida Omonova, Guldona Karimova, Madinabonu Xalilova, and Asal Salimova will defend the honor of Uzbekistan. This squad combines youth, experience, and high ambitions.
Women's national team roster:
Afruza Hamdamova — Woman Grandmaster, 2423 rating
Umida Omonova — Woman Grandmaster, 2357 rating
Guldona Karimova — Woman International Master, 2279 rating
Madinabonu Xalilova — Woman FIDE Master candidate, 2226 rating
Asal Salimova — Woman FIDE Master, 2144 rating
Within the framework of the Turkic States Chess Forum, great attention is being paid to taking relations between the federations of 6 countries to a new level, developing joint projects, and exchanging experience in the field of chess.
Such competitions provide a great psychological boost for young chess players, as international team events offer more than just ratings and prizes; they are an opportunity to build character, teamwork, and showcase talent on a big stage.
In short, the tournament in Astana will be another important test for Uzbek chess. Our national teams have strong rosters, and the goal is clear: to achieve a worthy result among Turkic states and once again demonstrate the potential of our country's chess school.
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