Kenya’s young chess stars shine at Intellect Academy Cup in Russia
By Joel Masibo, February 18, 2026Kenya’s profile in global mind sports continues to rise after a stunning performance by the national junior chess team at the ongoing Intellect Academy Cup Chess Tournament in Novokuznetsk, Kuzbass, Russia.
Shortly after the victory, Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi took to his social media pages on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, hailing the junior side following their commanding display against the host nation, declaring them the country’s future grandmasters.
“Hail the future Kenya’s Grandmasters. They are young; they are hugely gifted; they are exceptional, and they know their moves!” said Mwangi.
The tournament, being held in Novokuznetsk in Russia’s Kuzbass region untilSunday, February 22, 2026, has drawn participation from over 30 countries, underlining its global stature and competitiveness. Facing Russia’s Kuzbass Team on their home turf, Team Kenya delivered a statement victory that turned heads across the competition.
Dominant display against hosts
Living up to Kenya’s growing reputation in chess, the team dismantled the Russian side with an emphatic 11-2 triumph. Team Captain Floyd Wesonga led from the front, inspiring his teammates with a flawless 4-0 sweep in his matches. Other team members held the opponents’ captain to a balanced 2-2 draw before sealing the contest in style with a 5-0 result in the final match, cementing Kenya’s overall 11-point victory.
The comprehensive win not only underscored the players’ tactical sharpness but also highlighted the depth of emerging chess talent back home.
“The win demonstrated Kenya’s rising prominence as the home of chess masters,” Mwangi added. “With every day, we are determined to equip our young chess players with skills to keep conquering; competing, winning and rising to the highest possible levels; that of chess grandmasters.With belief, commitment and will, we are getting there!”
As the young chess stars continue to sharpen their strategies on the international stage, hopes are high that the country could soon produce its first homegrown grandmaster.
For now, the nation celebrates a remarkable achievement by a fearless group of youngsters who proved that Kenya’s winning spirit extends beyond the track and field, all the way to the 64 squares of the chessboard.