In a fascinating convergence of military strategy and intellectual combat, the 35th NATO Chess Championship recently concluded in Dęblin, Poland. This unique event, far from the battlefields, brings together the sharpest minds from NATO member nations, demonstrating that strategic prowess is as crucial on the chessboard as it is in geopolitical maneuvering. This year, the tournament crowned Turkey as its champion, reaffirming the nation`s rising prominence in the world of chess.
A Grand Opening in the Cradle of Polish Aviation
Hosted from August 18 to 22, 2025, at the prestigious Polish Air Force University in Dęblin, the championship was more than just a competition; it was a celebration. With 115 players representing various branches of the armed forces, it stood as one of the largest editions of the championship to date. The venue itself held historical significance, with the university preparing to celebrate its 100th anniversary as the founding place of the Polish flight school.
The opening ceremony, a blend of military formality and academic flair, saw Brigadier General Pil. Dr. Krzysztof Cur, Commander of the Polish Air Force University, extend a warm welcome. His address, where he was formally introduced as `His Magnificence,` raised a few eyebrows and became the delightful topic of conversation among participants – a rare, perhaps even quaint, academic honorific in a military setting. Radosław Jedynak, President of the Polish Chess Federation, emphasized the deep connection between chess and military discipline, honoring Colonel Sławomir Kędzierski for his significant contributions to military chess development. As Colonel Kędzierski aptly put it, “Chess is one of the best sports for training the most important organ in our body – the brain.” Indeed, the championship serves as a poignant reminder that “We are stronger and safer when we stand together,” underscoring both athletic excellence and NATO`s enduring unity.
Turkey`s Strategic Brilliance and Germany`s Unyielding Spirit
From the outset, the Turkish team emerged as the pre-tournament favorite, spearheaded by the formidable Grandmaster Batuhan Daştan, boasting an impressive FIDE rating of 2562. Living up to expectations, Turkey triumphed, securing first place in the team standings with 23 points. Their victory was a testament to meticulous preparation and individual brilliance, showcased on an international stage.
However, the narrative of this championship would be incomplete without acknowledging the remarkable performance of the German team, which clinched a hard-fought second place with 19.5 points. This achievement was particularly noteworthy as they battled past strong contenders like Poland and the USA, all while reportedly missing two of their top players. Germany`s consistent presence at the top tiers of international chess is no secret; with nearly a hundred Grandmasters and one of the largest national chess federations globally, their performance in Dęblin merely reaffirmed their deep-rooted chess strength and strategic resilience. It`s a testament to their deep talent pool that even under reduced strength, they remain a formidable force.
An Exclusive Insight: FM Robert Stein on Mental Fortitude
We had the opportunity to speak with FM Robert Stein, a key member of the German Armed Forces team, who offered fascinating insights into the competitive spirit and mental demands of the championship. When asked about Germany`s silver medal aspirations, Stein candidly admitted, “We always strive for gold, but we knew that Turkey had an exceptionally strong team – plus we were missing two of our top players. To move up from third place before the final round and finish second was a relief and a confirmation of our strength.”
Stein’s personal journey into the tournament was equally impressive, having just achieved his second International Master (IM) norm prior to the event. He highlighted a pivotal game in round 5 against Marcin Pietruszewski from Poland: “I launched a fierce attack on the kingside, advanced to h3 and checkmated him – which led to a classic, sporting finish.” Such moments of brilliance underscore the intricate beauty and brutal efficiency of high-level chess.
Maintaining mental fitness during grueling, long games is paramount. Stein shared his simple yet effective strategy: “I drink a lot, take short walks during breaks and rely on my physical fitness – training helps me stay mentally alert during long games.” When playfully asked about a rule change, he proposed: “I would allow 10 minutes more time after the 40th move – that would improve the overall quality of the endgame.” A subtle, technical adjustment that only a seasoned player would appreciate, demonstrating a true connoisseur`s understanding of the game. Looking ahead, Stein and his team are already setting their sights on reclaiming the gold medal next year.
A Symbol of Alliance: Looking to 2026
The championship`s closing ceremony, overseen by Brigadier General Hendrik Steffers from the Netherlands, included a significant tradition: the symbolic handover of the tournament`s Viking ship emblem. This year, it passed to Latvia, signifying their role as the host nation for the 2026 NATO Chess Championship.
Since its establishment in 1989, the NATO Chess Championship has cultivated a unique legacy. It stands as a testament to the power of strategic competition in strengthening alliances and fostering intellectual exchange among military personnel from diverse backgrounds. This year`s event in Dęblin not only celebrated Turkey`s victory and Germany`s steadfast performance but also reinforced the profound strategic and unifying role that chess plays within the NATO community. It’s a subtle reminder that even in an era of advanced technology, the human mind`s capacity for strategic thought remains an invaluable asset, both on and off the board.
