Emirati arbiter Mazmi to officiate at World Team Rapid and Blitz Chess Championship

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has selected Emirati International Arbiter Abdulla Murad Al Mazmi as part of the officiating team for the World Team Rapid and Blitz Chess Championship 2026, which will be held in Hong Kong from June 16 to 22.

The tournament will feature a lineup of top world champions and grandmasters, led by Magnus Carlsen, the world number one.

Mazmi’s selection comes as a culmination of his distinguished career in chess officiating and sports management. He currently serves as Chairman of the Arbiters Committee at the Arab Chess Federation and oversees the Sharjah International Masters Tournament, one of the most prominent events on the international chess calendar.

Commenting on his appointment, Abdulla Murad Al Mazmi said: "I feel great pride and immense happiness to be chosen as one of the arbiters for the World Rapid and Blitz Team Chess Championship, one of the most important tournaments globally due to the participation of elite players and world champions. This selection represents a significant responsibility before being a personal honor, and it reflects the trust the International Chess Federation places in Emirati arbiters and their ability to manage matches at the highest professional levels."

He added: "I consider this participation an extension of the successes achieved by Emirati professionals across various sports. I will strive to deliver the best possible performance, adhering to the highest standards of accuracy and impartiality in managing the competitions. I also look forward to learning from this important experience and exchanging expertise with the top international arbiters participating in the tournament, contributing to the development of officiating systems and enhancing the UAE’s presence in international chess."

Mazmi concluded: "Representing the UAE at a global event of this magnitude is a great honor. I hope to meet expectations and present a respectable image that reflects the advanced level reached by Emirati chess and its administrative and officiating capabilities."