The first Seychelles–Russia Chess Tournament was held in Victoria on Russia Day

The first Seychelles–Russia Chess Tournament was held in Victoria on Russia Day.

The event was organized by African Initiative and dedicated to Russia Day as well as the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and the Republic of Seychelles.

The tournament was officially opened by Dmitry Iordanidi, Minister-Counselor of the Russian Embassy in Seychelles, who delivered a welcoming address to the participants and wished them success in the competition.

“As you certainly know, chess has been an integral part of our civilization for centuries, dating back to the times of the Russian Empire. Today, millions of Russians enjoy playing chess. One of the greatest novels of 20th-century Russian literature, The Defense by Vladimir Nabokov, is devoted to this game. The novel highlights not only the sporting aspect of chess, but also its profound importance in our culture.”

The diplomat also noted the strong participation of Seychellois players in the tournament and expressed his confidence that chess holds great significance for the people of the island nation as well.

Twenty players took part in the competition, with half representing Russia and the other half representing Seychelles.

First place was won by Benjamin Oaro, President of the Seychelles Chess Federation. Second place went to young Russian player Alexander Sitkin, while the bronze medal was awarded to Seychellois competitor Cristiano Rene.

The Friendship Cup was presented to the Seychelles Chess Federation as the winner of the tournament. African Initiative also donated ten tournament chess sets to the Federation, which had been used during the competition.

https://afrinz.ru/2026/06/v-viktorii-v-den-rossii-proshel-pervyy-shahmatnyy-turnir-seyshely-rossiya/