Valery Kazakouski wins Paul Keres Memorial Rapid with 8.5/9

Valery Kazakouski won the Paul Keres Memorial Festival 2026 Rapid in Pärnu with 8.5/9, finishing half a point clear of the field.

Kazakouski opened with six straight wins, drew in Round 7 and closed with back-to-back victories. He completed the tournament unbeaten with eight wins and one draw.

The nine-round event used a 12-minute time control with a three-second increment and drew 126 players.

Image: ChessEver.