Yueci Li from Eltham College was crowned winner of the nationwide competition held at Blenheim Palace on October 18 and 19.
Parents of competitors affectionately refer to the tournament as the “Wimbledon of chess”, with 60 of the UK’s brightest young players taking part.
This marks Yueci’s third season in the UK Chess Challenge, and her second successive Terafinal victory, after winning the Under-10 Girls’ category in 2024.
She qualified for the Terafinal by winning the Northern Gigafinal at Wright Robinson College in Manchester.
The Delancey UK Chess Challenge, which was founded in 1996, has introduced more than one million children to competitive chess.
Over a two-day event, players competed across five age categories for the prestigious title of 2025 UK Chess Challenge Champion.
More than £5,000 in prizes and trophies were awarded to the top performers, and each finalist received a personalised medal.
Jamie Ritblat, founder and executive chairman of Delancey, said: “The Delancey UK Chess Challenge continues to demonstrate how the power of opportunity and education can help young people realise their potential.
“Watching these talented players compete with such focus and creativity is truly inspiring.
“Delancey is proud to support a programme that not only celebrates achievement but also helps nurture the next generation of thinkers and leaders.”
Sarah Longson, CEO of the Delancey UK Chess Challenge, added: “The Terafinal is the pinnacle of junior chess in the UK – a celebration of months of hard work and a showcase of incredible young talent.
“Every player competing at Blenheim Palace has earned their place through dedication and determination.
“Congratulations to all the players, and a huge thank you to the parents whose support makes it all possible.”
