Armenia’s men’s chess team has been recognized as the “Team of the Century” by the International Chess Federation (FIDE). The prestigious award was presented during a gala on September 19 at the 45th World Chess Olympiad in Budapest, marking the 100th anniversary of FIDE’s foundation.
The Armenian team, known for its exceptional achievements, is a three-time winner of the World Chess Olympiad (2006, 2008, 2012) and has also secured gold medals at the European and World Team Championships (1999, 2011). This recognition as “Team of the Century” highlights the team’s consistent excellence and significant contributions to the chess world.
In addition to Armenia’s honor, former world champion Magnus Carlsen was recognized as the best chess player of the century, and Judit Polgar was named the best female chess player. Armenian Chess Federation First Vice President Smbat Lputian also received an award for promoting chess globally.
The gala, dedicated to celebrating FIDE’s centenary, honored individuals, groups, and organizations that have made remarkable impacts on the game of chess. FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich and FIDE Vice President Mahir Mammedov welcomed attendees, reflecting on the federation’s history and achievements over the last century. Mammedov noted, “The first century of FIDE’s life has been full of remarkable events, great personalities, and memorable matches. For this, we must thank the founders of FIDE!”
While the former USSR would have been the undisputed leader based on the number of Olympiad medals, the jury decided to honor a currently existing country. Armenia, with its three Olympiad victories, was chosen over other contenders, including China, which has won two gold medals in the last decade.
Armen Gevorgyan, Executive Director of the Armenian Chess Federation, accepted the award on behalf of the team. Currently, after eight rounds of matches at the Budapest Olympiad, Armenia’s men’s team stands in fourteenth place.
