The selection tournament concluded in Ashgabat, identifying the core members of Turkmenistan's youth national team (U16) for the upcoming inaugural Chess Olympiad among Turkic states. Held at the Specialized Chess and Draughts School, the event brought together 49 aspiring players from across the country. The competition followed the Swiss system over nine rounds, providing a rigorous test of skill and endurance for the young participants aiming for international glory.

Following the final results, the national squad will include Ali Ahmedow and Ahmet Artykow, who topped the standings with 7 points each. They are joined by Gurbanmyrat Rustemow, Dilber Hupbyýewa, and Zalina Iminowa, all of whom secured 6,5 points. The tournament was noted for its high level of competitive spirit, with younger players showing exceptional resilience against older opponents. This blend of talent ensures a formidable representation for Turkmenistan on the international stage.

The Olympiad is scheduled to take place from May 13 to 18, 2026, in the historic city of Turkestan, Kazakhstan. It will feature youth teams from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Simultaneously, adult competitions will be held in Almaty, serving as a critical preparatory phase for the 46th World Chess Olympiad in Samarkand. These events highlight the growing integration and competitive level of chess within the Turkic world.

Turkmenistan’s active participation in this movement is part of a broader commitment to the Turkic Chess Association, the establishment of which was formalized by a Memorandum signed in Astana on October 20, 2025. By competing in Turkestan, these young athletes are not only pursuing sporting excellence but also reinforcing the cultural and historical ties shared between these nations. The team is now entering an intensive training phase to prepare for their debut in this landmark international tournament.