FIDE World Cup 2025 Champion: Javokhir Sindarov Makes History

We have a new World Cup winner. At just 19 years old, Javokhir Sindarov has won the FIDE World Cup 2025, writing his name into chess history and marking a defining moment not just for himself, but for Uzbek chess as a whole.

The final took place today, November 26, 2025, in Goa, and once again came down to tiebreaks. Facing China’s Wei Yi, Sindarov showed incredible composure under pressure. In the rapid tiebreak, playing with the black pieces, he managed to turn a tense battle into a decisive victory.

The final game ended on move 60, in a moment of pure clarity. Sindarov launched a tactical strike that attacked Wei Yi’s king and rook at the same time. With no way out and no counterplay left, Wei Yi chose to resign. The World Cup title was decided right there.

Time Pressure That Finally Backfired

Wei Yi has lived dangerously throughout these tiebreaks. From the beginning of the tournament, he repeatedly found himself in extreme time trouble — making moves with one second on the clock, relying entirely on the increment to survive. And more than once, it worked. He escaped, fought back, and turned lost positions around.

But today was different.

Sindarov didn’t rush. He didn’t panic. He used Wei Yi’s time pressure against him, increasing the tension move by move and forcing difficult decisions. This time, there was no miracle escape. The pressure finally told.

A Huge Moment for Uzbek Chess

Chess in Uzbekistan is already booming — and this win will only accelerate it.

In just a few years, the country has produced generation after generation of elite players. Sindarov’s World Cup title is not an isolated success; it’s a statement. Young players across Uzbekistan will look at this moment and believe that the very top is within reach.

Winning the World Cup at 19 years old is the first time in history. Doing it with calm, maturity, and black in a rapid tiebreak final makes it even more impressive.

Prize, Glory, and a Bigger Future Ahead

Along with the trophy, Javokhir Sindarov takes home $120,000 USD — but the real value of this victory is much bigger than the prize money. It’s confidence. It’s recognition. It’s a career-defining milestone that opens doors to an even bigger future.

Today, Sindarov didn’t just win a tournament.

He announced himself to the chess world.

And it feels like this is only the beginning.