Uzbekistan's Chess Passion Rivals India's, Revenge on Mind for 2026 Olympiad
Uzbekistan's fervent love for chess stands as a formidable rival to India's own deep-rooted passion for the game. As the Chess Olympiad approaches later this year in Uzbekistan, the national team is driven by a burning desire for revenge, aiming to reclaim the gold medal they lost to India in the 2024 edition. The Uzbek quartet, comprising Javokhir Sindarov, Nodirbek Abdusattorov, Nodirbek Yakubboev, and Jakhongir Vakhidov, is poised to challenge India's dominance on home soil.
A Hero's Welcome for Chess Stars
When Nodirbek Abdusattorov and Javokhir Sindarov returned to Uzbekistan after their stellar performances at the Tata Steel Chess tournament in Wijk aan Zee, they were greeted with overwhelming national pride. The players, who secured first and second places in the prestigious classical event, were immediately draped in traditional Uzbek attire—a long robe known as a chopon and a cap called a doppi. They were met with countless hugs, grandiose bouquets, and a flurry of camera crews, highlighting their celebrity status in the country.
The scenes were reminiscent of the reception Indian prodigy Gukesh received upon winning the Candidates tournament in 2024, underscoring the parallel adoration for chess stars in both nations. In Uzbekistan, chess has transcended mere sport to become a national obsession, with players enjoying fame akin to that of Bollywood celebrities or cricket icons in India.
Government Support and National Recognition
The Uzbek government's commitment to chess is evident in its unwavering support for players. When Sindarov won the FIDE World Cup in Goa in November, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev interrupted his speech during the Presidential Olympics opening ceremony to announce the victory to a packed stadium, eliciting rapturous applause. Shortly after, the president personally video-called Sindarov to congratulate him.
Upon Sindarov's return home, Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov led a grand welcome at Tashkent International Airport, featuring representatives from sports organizations, women in colorful traditional attire, flag-waving boys, and a military marching band. For his achievements, Sindarov was awarded a three-room apartment, a cash prize of approximately $10,000, and the state title of 'Honored Athlete of the Republic of Uzbekistan'.
This level of recognition is not new. After the Uzbek team upset India to win gold at the 2022 Olympiad in Chennai, members received two-room apartments and Chevrolet Equinox SUVs. Abdusattorov similarly received an apartment for his World Rapid Championship win in 2021.
Parallels with India's Chess Boom
The similarities between Uzbekistan's chess rise and India's ongoing boom are striking. Just as Viswanathan Anand paved the way for India's current golden generation, Rustam Kasimdzhanov has played a pivotal role as head coach of Uzbekistan's men's national team, mentoring young stars. Both countries benefit from robust government backing and private sponsorships, allowing players to focus solely on their craft.
While football and combat sports like boxing and wrestling remain popular in Uzbekistan, chess is rapidly climbing the ranks. Abdusattorov noted in a 2024 interview, "Chess is in the top three sports in Uzbekistan. We are one of the most improved sports in the country." The government supports everything from training camps to travel expenses, ensuring players have the resources to excel.
Historical Roots and Future Ambitions
Uzbekistan's connection to chess dates back centuries, with archaeological discoveries of chess pieces from the Kushan period (I-II centuries) in Dalvarzintepa and Samarkand. This rich history fuels the nation's contemporary ambitions.
As the 2026 Chess Olympiad in Uzbekistan looms, Abdusattorov expressed the team's determination: "We are definitely looking forward to having a kind of revenge for Budapest. It's going to be very interesting to see how we compete with each other over the years." He acknowledged India's deep reserves but emphasized Uzbekistan's commitment to giving their best on home turf.
With a golden generation of prodigies coming of age, Uzbekistan is poised to challenge India's chess supremacy, setting the stage for an epic showdown at the upcoming Olympiad.
