Mahin Represents England at the World Junior Chess Championships 2026

We are proud to celebrate Swinton and Worsley junior player Mahin Rughani, who represented England in the Under-14 section at the 2026 World Junior Chess Championships in Montesilvano, Italy.

Mahin produced several memorable performances against international opposition. After winning his opening game, he earned an impressive draw with the black pieces against FIDE Master Michele Di Liberto, an opponent rated more than 200 points above him.

A particular highlight came in Round 5, when Mahin’s victory over Aleksandr And Popov was featured as the English Chess Federation’s Game of the Day. Playing the Catalan Opening, he sacrificed a pawn to build pressure on the queenside and converted his attacking play into a win.

Representing England on the international stage is a wonderful milestone. Everyone at SWCC congratulates Mahin on his achievement, and we look forward to following his progress.

Well done, Mahin!

Read the English Chess Federation’s tournament report:https://www.englishchess.org.uk/world-junior-chess-championships-2026/