Rustam Kasimdjanov appointed head coach of Uzbekistan men’s national chess team

International Grandmaster and 2004 FIDE World Champion Rustam Kasimdjanov has been appointed head coach of the Uzbekistan men’s national chess team, the Chess Federation of Uzbekistan announced.

“Rustam Kasimdjanov is a distinguished representative of Uzbek chess, a highly knowledgeable expert with vast international experience. He is not only one of the world’s strongest grandmasters but has also worked extensively as a coach with international-level players,” the federation’s statement said.

His main tasks will include:

•  Strengthening consistent results on the international stage;
•  Establishing a modern training system for young players;
•  Preparing the national team effectively for major tournaments.

For reference, Rustam Kasimdjanov was born on December 5, 1979. He is an Uzbek international grandmaster, the 1998 Asian Champion, and was recognized as the FIDE World Chess Champion from 2004 to 2005.

Earlier, Ravshan Ermatov, First Vice President of the Uzbekistan Football Association, was appointed Deputy Chair of the FIFA Referees Committee for the 2025–2029 term.