Three European titles and a bronze for Bulgaria’s young chess players

Bulgaria’s young chess players came away with three European titles and a bronze medal from the 24th European Union Youth Chess Championship (EUYCC 2026), the Bulgarian Sports Chess Federation said.

Kalin Kotsev took the European title in the boys’ U8 category, while Niya Malcheva and Aleksandra Pehlivanova were crowned champions in the girls’ U12 and U14 events respectively. Georgi Koev completed Bulgaria’s four-medal haul with bronze in the boys’ U12 competition.

The championship was held from August 17 to 26 in Rožnov pod Radhoštěm, Czechia, under the patronage of the European Chess Union. It brought together 132 young players representing 19 federations.

The Bulgarian federation said the results highlighted the importance of sustained support and a clear path for young talent, but also raised concerns about funding.

“The success of our children once again shows how important sustained care, a clear perspective and genuine support for young talent are. The lack of funding from the Ministry of Youth and Sports for the preparation and participation of these competitors remains a matter of concern,” the federation said.

Editor: Miglena Ivanova