Vahap Şanal ran the table at the 2026 NATO Chess Championship in Jūrmala, posting a flawless 7/7 to claim outright first. The Turkish grandmaster's perfect score highlighted Türkiye's team victory as well, a dominant showing at an event that drew 148 military players from 18 NATO countries.
Laura Unuk of Slovenia finished second overall and claimed top honors among the women competitors. Robert Stein of Germany took bronze, winning the tiebreak battle for third place.
The championship doubled down with a blitz tournament on the side. Dutch IM Mark Timmermans took that crown, adding an extra title to the week's results.
A perfect 7/7 in a 148-player field is the kind of statement win that settles things fast. Şanal didn't leave room for debate. Türkiye's team success suggests depth beyond just their board one player, though Şanal's undefeated performance clearly set the tone. Military chess championships bring a different flavor than open tournaments. The talent level runs high, but the atmosphere reflects the players' backgrounds. NATO's military contingent showed up ready in Jūrmala.