Vasif Durarbayli

Vasif Durarbayli is an esteemed Azerbaijani chess Grandmaster, recognized for his aggressive, high-pressing style and deep knowledge of openings and dynamic play. Born on February 24, 1992, in Sumgait, Azerbaijan, he started playing chess at just six years old and quickly rose to prominence.

By the age of 14, he made history as the youngest player to ever represent Azerbaijan in the Chess Olympiad, a record that still stands today. His early achievements include winning the World Youth Chess Championship (U14) and the European Youth Chess Championship (U18). He earned the International Master title in 2007 and became a Grandmaster in 2010, marking his rise as one of Azerbaijan’s top players.

Throughout his career, Vasif has competed in and won numerous elite tournaments, including the Azerbaijani Chess Championship in 2021 and 2023. His exceptional performance in the 2021 FIDE World Cup placed him among the top 16 players in the world. He has also proudly represented Azerbaijan in multiple Chess Olympiads, showcasing his talent on the global stage.

As a coach, Vasif specializes in openings and dynamic play, focusing on aggressive and high-pressing strategies that put opponents under constant pressure. His coaching approach helps students sharpen their tactical skills and master the intricacies of opening preparation.

Beyond his playing and coaching career, Vasif is also widely recognized for his chess streams and blogs, where he shares in-depth game analysis, advanced strategies, and insightful commentary. His engaging content has made him a favorite among chess enthusiasts looking to enhance their understanding of the game.

Additionally, Vasif is the author of “2021 in 52 Games,“ a valuable resource for chess players of all levels. As one of Azerbaijan’s leading chess players and a respected figure in the international chess community, Vasif Durarbayli continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of chess talents.