New Delhi, India — The Indian chess team has once again proven its mettle on the global stage by securing a podium finish at the prestigious Online Chess Olympiad 2025. Competing against the world’s best, the Indian contingent clinched the bronze medal, marking another proud moment in the nation’s growing chess legacy.

A Stellar Performance

The tournament, organized by the International Chess Federation (FIDE), saw participation from over 180 nations, with India fielding a strong squad featuring a mix of experienced players and young prodigies. Leading the team was Grandmaster Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa, whose exceptional performance in the final rounds ensured India’s place on the podium.

The women’s board was equally dominant, with Harika Dronavalli delivering consistent wins, and Vaishali Rameshbabu excelling in the rapid format. The mixed-age composition of the team allowed India to balance experience with youthful energy, making it a formidable opponent throughout the tournament.

The Road to the Podium

India advanced through a grueling series of matches in the knockout stages, defeating strong contenders like Armeniaand Azerbaijan. In the semifinals, India faced a nail-biting clash against Russia, which ended in a narrow defeat. However, the team bounced back with resilience to secure a decisive victory against Germany in the third-place playoff, earning the bronze medal.

Technology Bridging Borders

The Online Chess Olympiad format, introduced during the pandemic, has continued to thrive, bringing the game to players worldwide. India leveraged its growing digital chess ecosystem, with platforms like Chess.com India and Lichess offering training support to the players. Initiatives under the Digital India Campaign have also played a role in enhancing connectivity, enabling smooth participation for players from across the country.

India’s Chess Ascendancy

This podium finish cements India’s position as a chess superpower, with its players regularly dominating the international arena. As India continues to nurture young talent and invest in chess infrastructure, the future looks promising for the country’s journey in the sport.