Russia's youngest Go prodigy competes at Chinese Consul General's Weiqi Cup
The Chinese Consul General’s Weiqi (Go) Cup recently wrapped up at the Urals Federal University in Yekaterinburg. The two-day event, held on May 23–24, attracted over 85 of Russia’s best players. Among them was six-year-old Zabava Fomina, the tournament’s youngest participant. The competition used the McMahon system on a standard 19x19 board, with each player given 40 minutes plus overtime. Prizes were awarded in multiple categories, including regional, women’s, and student divisions.
Weiqi has grown rapidly in Russia, with more than 100,000 enthusiasts nationwide. The country now has a national federation and 22 regional branches. The number of professional players is also increasing, many of whom perform well in international tournaments. Russian businesses have played a key role in promoting the game. Polymetal, a strategic partner of the Russian Go Federation since 2012, has hundreds of employees—including executives—who play weiqi and organise internal competitions. Other companies also sponsor tournaments and encourage staff to take up the game. The event highlighted weiqi’s role in strengthening cultural ties between China and Russia. The game has become a symbol of growing humanitarian exchanges between the two nations.
The tournament showcased Russia’s expanding weiqi community, from young beginners to top professionals. With strong corporate backing and rising participation, the game continues to gain popularity across the country. Organisers expect further growth in both local and international competitions.
