Romanian Irina Bulmaga Crowned European Vice-Champion in Chess

Romanian International Master (IM) Irina Bulmaga has brought pride to her nation by securing the silver medal at the prestigious 2025 European Women’s Chess Championship, held in Rhodes, Greece, from March 31 to April 11. This remarkable achievement highlights her exceptional skill and dedication to the game.

The championship featured 136 players from 34 countries competing over 11 intense rounds. Bulmaga, who entered as the 23rd seed with an ELO rating of 2362, demonstrated resilience and strategic brilliance throughout the tournament. She scored 8/11 points, tying with IM Mai Narva (Estonia) and IM Aleksandra Maltsevskaya (Poland). However, superior tiebreaks secured Bulmaga the silver medal, while Narva claimed bronze, and Maltsevskaya finished fourth.

Bulmaga’s journey to the podium included critical victories against strong opponents, showcasing her ability to turn challenging positions into decisive wins. Her consistent performance earned her a medal and qualified her for the upcoming FIDE Women’s World Chess Cup in Batumi, Georgia.

Romanian Chess on the Rise

Bulmaga’s success is part of a broader wave of achievements for Romanian chess. The Romanian delegation at the championship also included talented players like Mihaela Sandu, Alessia Ciolacu, and Miruna Lehaci, who collectively contributed to Romania’s growing prominence in European chess. Additionally, this accomplishment follows Romania’s hosting of major chess events, such as the European Individual Chess Championship in Eforie Nord earlier this year.

The tournament was dominated by Serbian IM Teodora Injac, who clinched the gold medal with an extraordinary score of 9.5/11 points after winning nine consecutive games. Injac’s victory marked her maiden European title and placed her 1.5 points ahead of Bulmaga and other runners-up.

Irina Bulmaga’s silver medal adds to her impressive chess career. Since 2016, she has been Romania’s top-rated female player and a seasoned competitor in international tournaments. She has consistently represented her country at Chess Olympiads and European Team Championships, and her achievements include numerous national titles and victories in international tournaments worldwide.

This victory cements Bulmaga’s status as one of Europe’s leading chess players and inspires a new generation of Romanian talent to pursue excellence on the global stage.