BRING YOUR VISION INTO ACTION
The 2025 FIDE Grand Swiss in Samarkand was nothing short of spectacular, with thrilling games, record-breaking performances, and unforgettable drama. In the Open section, GM Anish Giri delivered a masterclass in precision, grinding down GM Hans Niemann in the final round to clinch first place with 8/11 points. This victory not only earned him the $90,000 top prize but also a coveted spot in the 2026 FIDE Candidates Tournament.
Joining him will be GM Matthias Bluebaum, who drew against GM Alireza Firouzja and edged ahead on tiebreaks among the three players on 7.5/11. His qualification was sealed when GM Vincent Keymer was unable to convert a promising position against GM Arjun Erigaisi.
Final Standings – Open
- 🥇 Anish Giri – 8/11 (Champion, Candidates spot)
- 🥈 Matthias Bluebaum – 7.5/11 (Qualified via tiebreaks)
- 🥉 Alireza Firouzja – 7.5/11
- 🎖️ Other notable performers: GM Arjun Erigaisi, GM Vincent Keymer, GM Yu Yangyi
Vaishali Dominates the Women’s Grand Swiss
The Women’s Grand Swiss 2025 was once again ruled by GM Vaishali Rameshbabu, who secured her second consecutive title after a calm draw against GM Tan Zhongyi. With 8/11 points, she edged out GM Kateryna Lagno on tiebreaks.
Both Vaishali and Lagno have now booked their places in the 2026 FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament. Rising star GM Bibisara Assaubayeva finished third after letting a winning advantage slip against GM Anna Muzychuk.
Final Standings – Women
- 🥇 Vaishali Rameshbabu – 8/11 (Champion, Candidates spot)
- 🥈 Kateryna Lagno – 8/11 (Qualified via tiebreaks)
- 🥉 Bibisara Assaubayeva – 7.5/11
Future Stars: Teenagers Making History
The tournament also highlighted the rise of young prodigies:
- GM Andy Woodward (15) – Performed at 2784, gaining 33 rating points.
- GM Abhimanyu Mishra (16) – Performed at 2828, gained 32 points, crossed 2650, and extended his unbeaten streak in classical chess to 67 games.
These teenagers are shaping the future of world chess, and their performances in Samarkand prove that the next generation is ready to challenge the elite.
Why This Tournament Matters
The FIDE Grand Swiss 2025 wasn’t just about prize money or trophies—it was about the chance to qualify for the most prestigious event in chess: the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026. With stars like Giri, Bluebaum, Vaishali, and Lagno securing their seats, fans can already look forward to a thrilling Candidates lineup.
At Chess Visionaries, we believe that covering such historic events inspires the next generation of players. Watching the world’s best fight for their place in history teaches valuable lessons in resilience, preparation, and seizing opportunities.
Conclusion
With Anish Giri and Vaishali Rameshbabu both standing tall as champions, the 2025 Grand Swiss will be remembered as a tournament of grit, strategy, and dreams realized. Their qualification for the 2026 Candidates Tournament marks another milestone in their legendary careers, and the chess world now eagerly awaits what’s next.
