Mamedyarov, Radjabov talk of Baku Chess Olympiad

The Azerbaijan men’s team preparing for the 42nd World Chess Olympiad has completed the first training session in Gabala. Members of the team have talked to the press service of the Baku Chess Olympiad.

Shakhriyar Mamedyarov: “I am quite pleased with the training session. The fact that members of the national team train together is positive. We share what we know with each other. We also discuss opponents and review some openings. I think this training will prove beneficial to the national team. Members of the national team participate in numerous competitions abroad during the year. This is why we do not get to see each other too often. All chess players realize the responsibility on our shoulders. The training was held in a wonderful place. We even had the chance to do some sports. I am confident that our hard work will pay off. The key objective is to be fit for the Baku Chess Olympiad. Members of the team are very enthusiastic about the forthcoming event. We want to live up to people’s expectations for the World Chess Olympiad on our home soil.”

Teimour Radjabov: “The Baku Chess Olympiad is one of the biggest sporting events held in Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan has asserted itself globally as a sporting nation. All eyes will be focused on Azerbaijan again in September. The 42nd World Chess Olympiad will also arouse young people’s interest in chess. The first stage of training was great. There is no doubt that this prestigious event will be organized at a high level. We will do everything in our power to perform well in the Olympiad.”

Arkadij Naiditsch: “The conditions created for the national team are ideal. The training in Gabala has been very helpful. We have discussed the openings and different tactical ideas. We are fully aware of the great hopes pinned on the national team. This is why we have been training hard for the Olympiad. There will be tough competition at the Baku Chess Olympiad. And chess players should be ready for that.”

Eltaj Safarli: “The first stage of training in Gabala is over. I am very pleased with that. There were excellent conditions both for training and for doing some sports. There are two more stages ahead of us. I believe that the national team will be fully prepared for the 42nd World Chess Olympiad at the end of August.”

Rauf Mamedov: “According to the plan, there will be a total of three stages of training. The first stage was held in Gabala. Under the guidance of Etienne Bacrot, we worked on openings and different tactical ideas. The 42nd World Chess Olympiad will certainly stand out for the level of competition. There is greater responsibility involved, because we are playing on our home soil. We will do our best to perform well.”

Press service of the Baku Chess Olympiad