Nodirbek Abdusattorov commented on Team Uzbekistan’s victory at the Chess Olympiad 2026. Abdusattorov says Uzbekistan is currently the strongest chess nation in the world. Nodirbek notes their captain Rustam Kasimdzhanov’s contribution to their success.

Nodirbek Abdusattorov

Nodirbek Abdusattorov

Uzbekistan's No. 2

“[Question: Does this officially make Uzbekistan the strongest chess nation?]

I think at this moment I can safely say that it is number one.

[2022 or 2026? Which one is the most special?]

In our home country it’s a lot more enjoyable. I’m speechless right now. I’m just extremely happy.

[What about your captain Rustam Kasimdzhanov?]

Rustam is an absolute legend. He deserves these kinds of achievements, because I worked a lot with him. In this tournament he was motivating us every round. He was guiding us through every match and thanks to his efforts we made it.

[How happy are you about the individual gold medal?]

I’m extremely happy. I got two silver medals back in Chennai and also in Budapest. And this time in my home country my dream came true.”

The Chess Olympiad 2026 took place from September 16 to 27 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Team Uzbekistan won the tournament with 20 points and a 2-point lead. Uzbekistan won the Chess Olympiad for the second time in history.

Credit: Michal Walusza / FIDE