I, Xu Yuhua, was born in October 1976 and hold the title of International Grandmaster (GM). I graduated from Peking University in 2012 with a Master’s degree in Chinese Literature. My playing career brought me three Women’s Team Olympiad titles (2000, 2002, 2004), two Women’s World Cup titles (2000, 2002), and the Women’s World Championship in 2006. These achievements gave me a deep, firsthand understanding of elite competition and the global chess community.

Beyond the board, I have built a solid record of chess administration and governance. I have served on the FIDE Women’s Commission, and in 2022—during the FIDE Women’s Year—I took the initiative to create the China Women’s Open, launch the China Women’s Open Classroom, and produce a historical retrospective album on Chinese women’s chess. These projects demonstrate my ability to conceptualise, organise, and execute large-scale initiatives that promote women’s chess at both national and international levels.

In terms of executive leadership, I served as Vice President of the Chinese Chess Association from 2019 to 2024. Since 2024, I have been Secretary-General of the Chinese Chess Association, and since 2025, Director of the Chess Department of the Board and Card Games Administrative Center of the General Administration of Sport of China. I currently also serve as Vice President of the Asian Chess Federation. These roles have equipped me with extensive experience in strategic planning, policy implementation, budget management, team coordination, and stakeholder negotiation. I have worked closely with national and international bodies, navigating complex administrative environments and fostering collaborative relationships.

I believe I am well-qualified for the position to which I am seeking election. My unique combination of high-level competitive background, proven organisational skills, and hands-on experience in both national and continental governance gives me a comprehensive perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing our chess community. I bring strong communication skills, cultural sensitivity, and a genuine passion for advancing the game—especially for increasing women’s participation and leadership.

Vision for the term, if elected

If elected, I will dedicate my full energy to a forward-looking agenda that benefits players, federations, and the wider chess family. My priorities include:

• Promoting women’s chess and gender equity – Building on my track record, I will expand mentorship programmes, create more high-level events for female players, and encourage women’s representation in decision-making bodies across all levels.
• Strengthening grassroots development and youth education – I will advocate for chess to be integrated into more school curricula, support the training of coaches and organisers in underserved regions, and use modern digital tools to make chess accessible to all.
• Fostering international cooperation and cultural exchange – I will work to strengthen ties between continents, facilitate knowledge-sharing, and promote chess as a bridge for mutual understanding among diverse cultures.
• Supporting elite players and professional pathways – I will strive to improve prize funds, working conditions, and career transition support for professional players, so that chess remains a viable and respected profession.

I am committed to listening to the community and acting with integrity. If entrusted with this role, I will work tirelessly to ensure that our sport grows in both quality and inclusivity, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.