Chess.com unveils Naroditsky Cup to honour late grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky

Chess.com has announced the creation of a new Speed Chess Championship trophy named the Naroditsky Cup, honouring the late grandmaster and streamer Daniel Naroditsky, who died in October at the age of 29.

Naroditsky, widely known to fans as “Danya,” was one of the most respected voices in modern chess. Beginning his career at age six, he quickly rose to prominence after winning the Northern California K-12 Chess Championship at 11 and later claiming the World Youth title in the under-12 category.

His sudden death earlier this month prompted tributes from across the chess world, with players and fans acknowledging his talent, sportsmanship, and contributions to the community through streaming and commentary.

On October 30, Chess.com confirmed that starting with the 2025 Speed Chess Championship, the tournament winner will receive the Naroditsky Cup.

Similar to the Stanley Cup in ice hockey, the trophy will feature the engraved names of all winners, including retroactive entries for past champions.

“The event will remain the Speed Chess Championship, but we are creating a permanent Naroditsky Cup,” said Sam Copeland, Chess.com’s Head of Community.

“It is a way for us to celebrate and immortalise Danya’s countless contributions to chess and his direct impact on this event through his incredible commentary over the years.”

Players and fans have praised the move. Women’s grandmaster Nemo Zhou called the tribute “well done,” while fellow streamer Anna Cramling reacted with the applause emojis.

The 2025 Speed Chess Championship concludes on February 8 2026, featuring top players including Magnus Carlsen, Hikaru Nakamura, Alireza Firouzja, and Hans Niemann.

The introduction of the Naroditsky Cup ensures that the legacy of one of chess’s most beloved figures will endure.