Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region, has made history by hosting the Asian Senior Chess Championship, the first event of its kind ever held in Iraq. The tournament has attracted 44 elite players from 14 different countries, showcasing the region’s growing role in promoting international sports.
Delzar, head of the Khanzad Chess Club, announced that this championship represents a milestone for Iraq’s sporting community. He explained that the Asian Senior Chess Championship features top professional players, including several senior grandmasters aged 50 and above who hold prestigious international titles.
The event has brought together chess masters from Iraq, Russia, Iran, Pakistan, Syria, Jordan, Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Yemen, Cambodia, Palestine, Oman, Afghanistan, and India. Over the course of nine competitive days, participants will battle across multiple rounds to claim the championship title.
According to organizers, hosting the Asian Senior Chess Championship in Erbil reflects the Kurdistan Region’s capacity to organize major international tournaments. It also underlines the region’s growing cultural and sporting influence across Iraq and the broader Middle East.
The championship is not only about competition but also about fostering friendships among nations. Participants have expressed admiration for the hospitality and organization in Erbil, which has become a regional hub for international sporting events.
Local authorities have also emphasized the importance of such events for boosting tourism and cultural exchange. By hosting global tournaments, the Kurdistan Region aims to project an image of stability and openness while encouraging youth engagement in sports and intellectual activities.
The Asian Senior Chess Championship serves as a bridge between nations, combining strategy, culture, and sportsmanship. As the matches continue, all eyes remain on Erbil — now a new center for international chess in the region.