The European Youth Chess Championships took place in Greece from 3 to 12 November, bringing together talented young players from across Europe to compete for continental titles in six girls’ age categories.
One particularly special achievement made this year’s championships memorable: two sisters, Lila and Kaja Rzadkowska of Poland, both became European champions!
Lila won the U12 Girls’ title, while her sister Kaja claimed gold in the U14 category.
This double triumph is especially remarkable given its rarity. According to the sisters’ Facebook post, the last time two sisters won European titles at the same championships was 24 years ago, in 2002, when the legendary sisters Anna and Mariya Muzychuk achieved the same feat.
A truly remarkable achievement for Lila and Kaja!
The 2026 European Youth Champions – Girls’ Categories:
- U8: Melike Eliz Karahan (Türkiye)
- U10: Lile Svanadze (Georgia)
- U12: Lila Rzadkowska (Poland)
- U14: Kaja Rzadkowska (Poland)
- U16: Veranika Abramkina (FIDE)
- U18: Narmin Abdinova (Azerbaijan)
Congratulations to all the champions and medalists, as well as every participant who took part in the competition and gave their best throughout the championships.
Behind every young chess player is often a team of people who make the journey possible. Parents, coaches and supporters play an important role in helping young talents develop, overcome challenges and pursue their dreams. We send our warmest congratulations to them as well!
May these achievements inspire even more girls to discover chess, challenge themselves and believe in what they can accomplish.
