**Freedom Holding Corp. Partners with FIDE-ISCF for World Schools Team Championship in Costa Rica**
*San José, Costa Rica – August 7, 2026* – Freedom Holding Corp., the parent company of Freedom24, has been announced as the General Partner for the American Continental Stage of the FIDE-ISCF World Schools Team Championship 2026. This prestigious event is set to take place from August 11 to 16 in San José, marking a significant milestone as it is the first time Costa Rica and the Central American region will host this stage of the championship.
The championship is organized collaboratively by the International Chess Federation (FIDE), the International Schools Chess Federation (ISCF), the Costa Rican Chess Federation, and the Confederation of Chess for the Americas. Leading school teams from across the Americas will compete for a chance to qualify for the WSTC 2026 Grand Final, where they will face off against the winners from other continental stages.
A notable highlight of the championship week will be the Smart Moves Americas: Governments That Think Ahead conference, scheduled for August 12. This ministerial conference aims to bring together government representatives, education authorities, curriculum specialists, and international partners to discuss strategies for integrating chess into educational systems across the Americas. The event is part of the Year of Chess in Education 2026 initiative, which emphasizes the importance of chess as a tool for educational development.
The conference will cover various topics, including national policy, teacher development, curriculum integration, and regional cooperation in chess education. Additionally, a memorandum-signing ceremony is planned, alongside the launch of the Beacons League School Certification Programme for Costa Rican schools. This initiative aims to recognize and promote excellence in chess education within the country.
Throughout the championship week, participants can look forward to a range of activities, including masterclasses, classroom-focused sessions, girls’ leadership initiatives, and interactive events designed for students, teachers, parents, and coaches. These activities are intended to foster a deeper understanding of chess and its educational benefits, while also encouraging youth engagement in the sport.
Freedom Holding Corp.'s involvement in the championship underscores the company's commitment to promoting chess development and youth education. By supporting events like the FIDE-ISCF World Schools Team Championship, the company aims to create long-term opportunities for future generations and enhance the role of chess in educational contexts.
As the championship approaches, anticipation builds among participants and spectators alike, with the event expected to showcase some of the best young chess talent from across the Americas. The collaboration between various organizations and stakeholders highlights a shared vision of utilizing chess as a means to enrich educational experiences and develop critical thinking skills among students.
For more information on the championship and related events, interested parties are encouraged to follow updates from the organizing bodies and Freedom Holding Corp. as the dates draw near.