The winners of the Sports for All Open Chess Championship 2026 were crowned following the conclusion of the tournament organized by the Qatar Sports for All Federation, in partnership with the Ministry of Sports and Youth, in cooperation with the Qatar Chess Association.

The championship attracted 121 players representing 17 nationalities, including 19 Qatari participants, with competitors ranging in age from 12 years and above. The tournament was held at the Qatar Chess Association Training Center and followed the rapid chess format, with each player receiving 10 minutes plus an additional 5 seconds per move. Participants competed across four main groups throughout the event.

Following the conclusion of the competition, Mr. Abdullah Al Dosari, Executive Director of the Qatar Sports for All Federation, presented medals and cash prizes to the top three finishers, while finalists and outstanding participants received recognition awards aimed at encouraging continued participation and expanding involvement in community sports activities.

The championship title was claimed by Syed Abdul Qader, who secured first place. Pranav Pradeep Nair finished in second place, while Tanveesh Reddy Thiruvallur took third place.

Among the Qatari participants, Khalid Al Jumaat received the award for Best Qatari Player, while Layan Al Kubaisiwas named Best Qatari Female Player. In the youth categories, Fahad Al Mansoori was recognized as the top performer in the under-20 category. Hamad Al Kuwari earned a special award in the under-16 category, while Mohammed Al Jarbi received the award for Best Qatari Player under the age of 12.

Mr. Abdullah Al Dosari praised the strong participation and high standard of competition displayed by players from different age groups and backgrounds. He noted that the championship reflected the growing popularity of chess and highlighted its value as a mental sport that develops critical thinking, concentration, and intellectual skills.

Al Dosari also commended the strong family presence throughout the tournament, noting that it contributed to a vibrant and interactive community atmosphere while reinforcing chess as a sport enjoyed by people of all ages. He expressed his appreciation for the continued cooperation with the Qatar Chess Association and emphasized that such tournaments play an important role in promoting chess and expanding its player base across Qatar.

He added that the Federation’s annual calendar, which includes more than 850 events and championships this year, is designed to strengthen sports culture within society, engage diverse segments of the community, and offer a broad range of activities that cater to different interests and aspirations. Through these efforts, the Federation seeks to make sport an integral part of everyday life.

For his part, Hamad Al Tamimi, Executive Director of the Qatar Chess Association, expressed his satisfaction with the successful partnership between the two organizations. He noted that the championship demonstrated the growing interest in chess and showcased strong performances from participants across various age groups, contributing to the continued development and popularity of the sport in Qatar.