Strategy, Glory, and National Pride: Fantasy Chess League Rises During ETCC 2025

As the European Team Chess Championship 2025 concluded in Batumi, the passion for chess didn’t just stay on the boards. Across Europe (and beyond), chess fans took part in the Fantasy Chess League – ETCC Edition, a unique competition that brought together analysis, prediction, and community spirit.

💥 Over 30 passionate fans joined the challenge of selecting 8 national teams (4 from the Open section, 4 from the Women’s) that would represent them throughout the event. With every round played in Batumi, points earned by these nations translated into points for the fantasy players.

And what a ride it was!

Each round reshaped the leaderboard. Some players went all in on powerhouses like Azerbaijan, Romania, or Germany. Others bet on rising underdogs – and were rewarded. As the real ETCC games unfolded live on Chess.com, our Fantasy League added another thrilling layer of engagement for fans.

🎯 In the end, Irina Băițel emerged victorious with an impressive total of 85 points, closely followed by a tight pack of contenders. Here's the Top 10:

🥇 Irina Băițel – 85 pts
🥈 JediGoat – 84 pts
🥉 Barilă Cristian Dorin – 84 pts
4️⃣ Gergely Szabo – 83 pts
5️⃣ Diana Gornea – 83 pts
6️⃣ Toma Iustin – 81 pts
7️⃣ Lucian Arhire – 81 pts
8️⃣ George Cotet – 80 pts
9️⃣ Andrei A – 80 pts
🔟 Cosmin Iuga – 80 pts

With enthusiasm, friendly rivalry and strategic thinking, this Fantasy League proved that chess isn’t just about playing – it’s also about community, creativity, and supporting your favorite teams with heart and brain.

Special shoutout to Team Romania – both in the Open and Women’s sections – for their strong performances and fighting spirit. Fans proudly followed every round, cheering their national teams and tracking the impact on their fantasy scores.

We’re already excited for the next edition! Until then, remember: chess isn’t just a game – it’s a world you can live in.