The same titans who clinched a sensational bronze at the 45th Chess Olympiad two years ago now face an uncertain future, with the 46th FIDE Chess Olympiad set for September 2026. The crisis is compounded by the dramatic withdrawal of the kingdom’s finest masters — including CM Smilo Hlophe — from the previous qualifying cycle.
In their stead, the national team has been infused with fresh blood. Under-20 National Champion Kwanele Ngwenya leads the new guard, alongside De Nobrega Santiago and Nkosivile Mabuza.
The Ladies National Team offers a sturdier bridge to past glories, retaining three survivors from the Hungary trip. Reigning champion Nolwazi Nkwanyana captains the side, supported by WCM Sinqobile Dlamini and Nomcebo Sibisi.
Nkwanyana, Mkhonto and Sibisi were the architects of the gold-medal triumph at the 44th Olympiad in India; two years ago they suffered the heartbreak of a fifth-place finish following a cruel tie-breaker.