The 2nd European KCF Trainers Conference

The 2nd European KCF Trainers Conference was the centerpiece of Kasparov Day. Coaches, trainers, teachers, and chess enthusiasts from across Europe gathered to exchange ideas and hear from four distinguished experts in chess education, led by Garry Kasparov.

The highlight of the conference was the keynote speech by Garry Kasparov. In his address, "The Evolution of Chess Training in Modern Times," he reflected on how chess preparation has evolved from books and personal coaching to databases, engines, and artificial intelligence.

While technology continues to reshape the game, Kasparov emphasized that curiosity, creativity, and outstanding coaching remain the cornerstones of long-term improvement. His inspiring speech concluded with an engaging Q&A session, where participants discussed the future of chess education and the growing role of AI in the game.

The conference also featured three excellent presentations covering different aspects of chess education and player development.

Opening the conference, FST Michael Khodarkovsky, President of the Kasparov Chess Foundation, presented the Foundation's flagship educational initiatives in "Program Development – All Girls Championships and Young Stars Program." Drawing on decades of experience, he explained how these projects encourage more girls to play chess while identifying and supporting exceptional young talents around the world. His presentation clearly demonstrated the Foundation's long-term commitment to developing the next generation of players.

In his presentation, "Chess at the University Level," GM Alex Onischuk, former U.S. Champion and Director of the Texas Tech University Chess Program, shared the successful model behind one of the world's strongest university chess programs. He highlighted how talented players can successfully combine academic studies with elite-level chess while continuing their development in a professional environment.

Representing ChessBase, FM Bahne Fuhrmann focused on "How to Use ChessBase Efficiently as a Tool for Chess Training." Through practical examples, he demonstrated how modern databases and analytical tools can help coaches prepare more effectively, analyze games, and better understand the strengths and weaknesses of their students.

Each presentation was followed by an interactive Q&A session, giving participants the opportunity to exchange ideas directly with the speakers and discuss practical coaching challenges.

After the conference, Garry Kasparov and Michael Khodarkovsky met with Dr. Anže Logar, above right, Minister for the Economy, Tourism and Sport, and Dr. Tadej Osterc, above left, Minister for Health. The meeting focused on the role of chess in education, youth development, and opportunities to further strengthen chess in Slovenia through future cooperation and educational initiatives.

The 2nd European KCF Trainers Conference once again demonstrated that the Kasparov Chess Foundation Friendship Festival is much more than a chess tournament. It has become an international platform where leading players, coaches, educators, and organizers come together to exchange knowledge, inspire one another, and help shape the future of chess education.

The 2nd Albin Planinc Memorial Blitz Tournament

Following the conference, the focus shifted from education to competition with the 2nd Albin Planinc Memorial Blitz Tournament, held in memory of one of Slovenia's greatest chess players.

Before the first round, Garry Kasparov made the ceremonial first move, officially opening the tournament. The event attracted 138 players from 28 countries, creating another truly international competition as part of the festival.

After eleven exciting rounds, GM Xu Xiangyu (China) claimed first place. GM Szymon Gumularz (Poland) finished second, while GM Nico Chasin (USA) completed the podium in third place.

Children's U10 Tournament

Kasparov Day concluded with the Children's U10 Tournament, giving the youngest chess enthusiasts a memorable opportunity to compete during the festival.

Before the games began, Garry Kasparov once again performed the ceremonial first move, much to the delight of the children and their parents.

The tournament was won by Maks Levacic, one of Slovenia's brightest young talents and the bronze medallist at the 2025 European Under-8 Championship. His victory provided a fitting conclusion to a day dedicated to every generation of chess players—from aspiring youngsters to experienced coaches and world champions.