CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Twelve-year-old Argentine chess prodigy Faustino Oro has captured global attention after becoming the second-youngest Grandmaster in chess history, earning comparisons with football legend Lionel Messi and the nickname “Messi of Chess.” Born in Buenos Aires and now based in Spain, Oro achieved the historic feat at just 12 years, 6 months, and 26 days during the Sardinia World Chess Festival in Italy.
Oro’s rise has been extraordinary. He began playing chess during the COVID-19 pandemic and rapidly shattered multiple age records, including becoming the youngest International Master in history at age 10. He also gained worldwide fame after defeating world No. 1 Magnus Carlsen in an online bullet chess game in 2024.
His family reportedly moved from Argentina to Barcelona to help develop his chess career, a decision that proved transformative for the young talent. Known for practicing nearly six hours daily, Oro combines tactical brilliance with exceptional maturity and discipline beyond his age.
Chess experts and analysts believe Oro could become one of the dominant figures in the sport’s future. Even Magnus Carlsen publicly praised the youngster’s talent, reportedly saying that at 12, Oro was more advanced in chess than Messi was in football at the same age
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