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GM Vladimir Fedoseev

Slovenia

Born on February 16, 1995, in Saint Petersburg

Elo std: 2739
Rapid: 2740
Blitz: 2746

GMT: –
MTO: 2022 (7th, 3rd ex-aequo)

 

Renowned for his aggressive playing style and ability to rapidly analyze complex positions, Vladimir Fedoseev has not only recaptured but surpassed his exceptional 2017 form. Currently ranked world No. 17, he gained an impressive 54 Elo points in just one year. The chess triathlon format suits him perfectly, as evidenced by his commanding victory at the Superbet Poland Rapid & Blitz this year. A win at the Biel Masters could earn him crucial points for the 2025 FIDE Circuit, where the champion secures automatic qualification for the 2026 Candidates Tournament

 

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GM Aravindh Chithambaram

India

Born on September 11, 1999, in Thirunagar

Elo std: 2724
Rapid: 2576
Blitz: 2611

GMT: –
MTO: 2021 (28th), 2018 (34th), 2017 (6th, 3rd ex-aequo), 2016 (3rd)
 

Known for his incisive style and resilience, Aravindh Chithambaram stands as yet another shining representative of India's rising chess generation. His recent triumphs in Prague and Chennai—which propelled him to 11th in the world rankings—have firmly established him as a serious contender on the international stage. While his ascent to the top tier came later than some of his compatriots, it fully validates the prophecy of his mentor, the legendary Ramesh: 'The greatest talent since Vishy Anand.'

 

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GM Volodar Murzin

Russia

Born on July 18, 2006, in Nizhny Tagil

Elo std: 2671
Rapid: 2644
Blitz: 2669

GMT: –
MTO: –
 

Volodar has developed an electric and uncompromising playing style, defined by razor-sharp tactical intelligence. Despite his youth, he has forged an unshakable resilience—first enduring the trauma of an abusive father, then facing a lack of support from the Russian Federation, which disapproves of his and his coach, GM Kobalia’s, critical stance on the geopolitical situation. At just 18 years old, the newly crowned World Rapid Champion is now determined to take a decisive step toward the elite at the Biel Festival!

 
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GM Frederik Svane

Germany

Born on January 21, 2004, in Lübeck

Elo std: 2659
Rapid: 2487
Blitz: 2553

GMT: –
MTO: –
 
Frederik employs a sharp and aggressive style, combining keen tactical intuition with a decidedly offensive temperament. His games often culminate in explosive endgames. His resounding victory over Matthias Blübaum in the 2021 Kader Challenge showcased the full extent of his potential. While he hasn’t yet crossed the 2700 Elo threshold, his rapid progress and calculated boldness suggest an imminent rise to the world elite—following in the footsteps of his illustrious compatriot, Vincent Keymer!
 
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GM Radoslaw Wojtaszek

Poland

Born on January 13, 1987, in Elbląg

Elo std: 2651
Rapid: 2657
Blitz: 2610

GMT: 2020 (winner), 2015 (2nd), 2014 (2nd)
MTO: –
 
Wojtaszek's style is known for its theoretical depth and versatility, refined through his work as Anand's second. His wins against Carlsen, Caruana, Nakamura and others, along with his sustained presence at the elite level, highlight his skill. His potential remains evident, reinforced by his recent work as Gukesh's second during the 2024 World Championship. At 37, the Polish player hasn't made his final move in the Triathlon – which he previously won in 2020 – though he hasn't yet had the opportunity to defend his title.
 
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GM Saleh Salem

United Arab Emirates

Born on January 04, 1993, in Sharjah

Elo std: 2627
Rapid: 2637
Blitz: 2644

GMT: 2024 (Challengers, winner), 2022 (5th)
MTO: 2021 (winner), 2019 (8th), 2018 (5th), 2017 (5th), 2016 (5th), 2013 (9th), 2011, 2009
 
With his aggressive and tactical playing style, thriving in rapid and blitz formats where his quick decision-making shines, Salem hopes to make his opponents tremble in this Masters, which he fully earned after his stunning victory in last year’s Challengers. Moreover, the student of Ivan Sokolov since 2013 will benefit from his triathlon experience, as this will be his third appearance after 2022 (following his 2021 MTO win) and 2024.