Russian Players Claim Women’s World Team Crown with Team FIDE

In a stunning display of chess prowess amid simmering geopolitical tensions, Team FIDE—comprised entirely of Russian players—clinched the 2025 FIDE World Women’s Team Championship in Linares, Spain, on November 23. The victory marked Russia’s third title in the event, following successes in 2017 and 2021, and came just days after Ukraine lodged a formal protest against their participation.

The controversy erupted prior to the tournament’s start on November 17. Ukraine’s delegation, echoing broader international sanctions against Russia over its 2022 invasion, filed an official appeal with FIDE, demanding the exclusion of the all-Russian squad. FIDE, however, upheld a July 2025 council resolution permitting such neutral entries, prioritizing the sport’s inclusivity.

Undeterred, Team FIDE dominated the round-robin format, securing top spot in their pool before dismantling strong contenders in the knockouts.

In the semifinals, they outmaneuvered China, and sealed gold with a decisive 5.5-2.5 aggregate finals win over Azerbaijan (3-1 in the first match, 2.5-1.5 in the second). Azerbaijan earned historic silver through resilient tiebreak victories, while China clinched bronze in a 5-3 bronze match win over Kazakhstan—led by GM Hou Yifan (3.5/6 on board one) but featuring a youthful lineup without other top Chinese stars.

Leading the charge were stars like GMs Aleksandra Goryachkina and Kateryna Lagno, but IM Polina Shuvalova stole the show on board three with a massive 9.5/10 score, securing individual gold and propelling her rating back over 2500. The mighty squad remained undefeated.

For Ukraine’s team, who finished mid-pack, the outcome deepened frustrations. As chess bridges divides yet mirrors real-world fractures, this championship underscores the ongoing struggle to balance competition with conscience. While the Russians celebrate, FIDE now faces calls to revisit its policies ahead of future events.