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| Photo : chess.at |
The European Youth Team Chess Championship 2025 – Open U18 concluded in Čatež ob Savi, Slovenia, hosted from July 5 to July 11, 2025, under the joint organization of the Slovenian Chess Federation and the European Chess Union (ECU). This prestigious FIDE-rated team event was played using the Swiss-System format across 7 intense rounds, with a standard time control of 90 minutes plus a 30-second increment per move from move one.
Austria's Undefeated Streak Earns Bronze
Among the top highlights of the event, Austria delivered a remarkable performance, securing the bronze medal in the Open U18 category without losing a single match. The Austrian team finished with 10 out of 14 possible team points, tying with Hungary and Turkey. Thanks to superior tie-breaks, Hungary claimed silver while Austria edged out Turkey for bronze. Poland dominated the category, clinching the championship title with 12 team points.
Austria’s journey to the podium was paved with impressive draws against chess powerhouses including Poland, Germany, Hungary, and Ukraine, and victories in their remaining matches. The team’s performance not only showcased consistency but also resilience in tough matchups.
Star Performers: FM Peter Balint and FM Alexander Gschiel
The tournament’s top performer was undoubtedly FM Peter Balint, who played on board three for Austria. Scoring an astonishing 5.5 points from 6 games, he registered a performance rating of 2712, the highest in the entire event.
FM Alexander Gschiel, playing on board five, also delivered critical wins for the team, finishing with 4 points out of 5 and a performance rating above 2500, reinforcing Austria’s strong bench depth.
Coach's Praise and the Road Ahead
Austria’s team coach, GM Markus Ragger, praised the players’ discipline and unity:
“Third place at the U18 European Team Championship is a strong result. Our boys showed real fighting spirit. What’s especially promising is that we left points on the board more often than we got lucky — that’s a sign of real potential. We’re confident this team can challenge the best chess nations in Europe.”
Final Standings (Top Teams – Open U18)
- Poland
- Hungary
- Austria
- Turkey
Event Details
Event: European Youth Team Chess Championship 2025 – Open U18Organizer: Slovenian Chess Federation & European Chess Union
Location: Čatež ob Savi, Slovenia
Dates: July 5–11, 2025
Rounds: 7 (Swiss-System)
Time Control: 90 minutes + 30 sec increment/move
Tournament Director: IO Nina Rob
Austria’s bronze medal finish signals a new era for its rising chess talent. With leaders like FM Peter Balint and FM Alexander Gschiel setting high standards, the team has proven they can go head-to-head with Europe’s elite. All eyes will now be on Austria’s young stars as they continue their chess journey with growing momentum.