The strategic battleground shifted from geopolitical maps to 64 squares as the 35th NATO Chess Championship unfolded in the venerable halls of the Polish Air Force University in Dęblin, Poland. From August 18th to 22nd, 2025, 115 players, representing diverse branches of the armed forces from across NATO nations, converged not for military drills, but for a cerebral contest of wits and foresight. This year`s championship, one of the largest in its history, underscored a crucial, albeit less conventional, aspect of alliance strength: intellectual prowess and strategic cohesion.
A Royal Welcome in Dęblin
The championship kicked off with an opening ceremony that blended military decorum with academic gravitas. Brigadier General Pil. Dr. Krzysztof Cur, Commander of the Polish Air Force University, extended a warm welcome, his address notably prefaced with the formal academic title “His Magnificence.” A title more accustomed to university rectors than military commanders, it certainly provided a moment of delightful surprise and, one might presume, a topic of lighthearted conversation among the participants before the serious business began.
General Cur highlighted that 2025 would be a landmark year for the academy, marking the 100th anniversary of the Polish flight school. Following him, Radosław Jedynak, President of the Polish Chess Federation, emphasized the profound contributions of Colonel Sławomir Kędzierski to military chess, honoring him with the association`s gold medal. Colonel Kędzierski then eloquently reminded everyone that Poland`s long-standing tradition of chess excellence – often medalists at Chess Olympiads – made Dęblin an apt host. His words resonated: Chess is one of the best sports for training the most important organ in our body – the brain.
He further stressed the unifying power of the event, stating, We are stronger and safer when we stand together.
A poignant reminder that even in individual contests, the spirit of collective strength endures.
Participants gather for a group photo before the first round.
Turkey`s Strategic Dominance and Germany`s Persistent Prowess
As the pieces began their dance, one team stood out as the pre-tournament favorite: Turkey. Led by the formidable Grandmaster Batuhan Daştan, boasting a FIDE rating of 2562, the Turkish contingent proved their mettle, securing first place in the team standings with an impressive 23 points. Their victory was a testament to both individual brilliance and cohesive team strategy, much like a well-executed military maneuver.
Grandmaster Batuhan Daştan, spearheading Turkey`s victory.
The battle for second place was a nail-biter, a fierce contest between chess powerhouses Poland, the USA, and Germany. Ultimately, it was Germany, with 19.5 points, that prevailed, reaffirming its long-standing strength in the chess world. Germany`s consistent performance is no surprise; it ranks among the leading nations globally in the number of Grandmasters, comparable to the United States, Ukraine, and India. With over 90,000 members spread across more than 2,500 clubs, the German Chess Federation (DSB) stands as one of the world’s largest national chess associations. Even facing a particularly strong Turkish team and missing two top players, Germany`s ability to climb from third to second place in the final round showcased their deep reserves of talent and tenacity.
The German team proudly accepting their silver medals.
An Interview with FM Robert Stein: Beyond the Board
To gain deeper insight into Germany`s journey, we had the privilege of speaking with FM Robert Stein, one of the German Armed Forces team`s strongest members. His perspective offered a glimpse into the minds that navigate the complexities of the chessboard under pressure.
On Germany`s Silver Medal:
“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.”
On Personal Preparation:
“I train consistently throughout the year. Two weeks before the event, I won a GM round-robin tournament and achieved my second IM norm – just half a point shy of the GM norm – so I went into the championship with momentum.”
Highlight Game:
Stein recounted a particularly memorable game from Round 5 against Marcin Pietruszewski of Poland. Playing Black in a Queen`s Gambit Declined, he launched a “fierce attack on the kingside, advanced to h3 and checkmated him – which led to a classic, sporting finish.” A vivid reminder that chess, at its heart, is a battle of aggression and precise execution.
FM Robert Stein during a match.
On Mental Endurance in Long Games:
“I drink a lot, take short walks during breaks and rely on my physical fitness – training helps me stay mentally alert during long games.”
It seems even the most cerebral athletes rely on good old-fashioned hydration and a bit of fresh air. Perhaps the secret to grandmaster-level play isn`t just countless hours of theoretical study, but also a brisk stroll to avoid cabin fever from all those intense stares at the board.
A Proposed Rule Change:
“I would allow 10 minutes more time after the 40th move – that would improve the overall quality of the endgame.”
A fascinating suggestion, born perhaps from the agonizing precision required in endgame play. A little extra time could indeed elevate the aesthetics of the finale, sparing players the frantic clock-bashing that sometimes mars an otherwise brilliant game. It`s almost as if he`s asking for a strategic timeout in the heat of battle – a concept not entirely foreign to military strategists.
Looking Ahead:
“We are already preparing to win back the gold medal next year!”
A clear and determined statement, embodying the competitive spirit that drives these military chess players. The pursuit of excellence, it seems, is an unceasing endeavor.
The Legacy and Future of the Championship
The closing ceremony, presided over by Brigadier General Hendrik Steffers from the Netherlands, saw the championship`s symbolic Viking ship handed over to Latvia, the proud host country for 2026. This tradition not only signifies the passing of organizational duties but also symbolizes the enduring spirit of camaraderie and competition that defines the event.
The Viking ship symbol being passed to Latvia, host for 2026.
Since its inception in 1989, the NATO Chess Championship has grown to be more than just a tournament; it is a unique platform for fostering strategic thinking, strengthening alliances, and building bridges between military personnel from diverse backgrounds. Germany`s performance this year, navigating heightened competition and player absences to secure silver, once again demonstrated its resilience and deep-rooted chess tradition, proving they remain a formidable force on the global chess stage.
As the chess world looks forward to Latvia 2026, the 35th NATO Chess Championship in Dęblin will be remembered not only for Turkey`s well-deserved victory but also for its vibrant celebration of intellect, sportsmanship, and the unwavering unity that underpins the NATO alliance.
Finley Holt 
Callum Darby