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Vancouver Makes History as First North American Host of the World Amateur Go Championship

The 2025 World Amateur Go Championship (WAGC) concluded with thrilling intensity and global unity, marking a historic milestone as the first-ever edition held in North America. From 16–23 May, the vibrant city of Vancouver welcomed 52 of the world’s finest amateur Go players in a celebration of cultural exchange, strategic brilliance, and international cooperation.

What began as a bold idea in 2023 came to fruition thanks to the coordinated efforts of organizers across Japan, the USA, Toronto, and Vancouver. Despite the complexity of planning, the result was a flawlessly executed tournament that brought the ancient game of Go into the spotlight on a global stage.

Traditional powerhouses China, Korea, and Japan entered as frontrunners, while North America’s hopes rested on Canadian talent Brady Zhang and USA’s Alan Huang. Europe’s challenge was led by France’s rising star Benjamin Dréan-Guénaïzia and Czech veteran Lukas Podpera. The opening ceremony and welcome banquet set a tone of camaraderie and respect among the diverse international field. The competition kicked off on 17 of May with opening remarks delivered by the IF officials and the Consul General of Japan in Vancouver, Mr Takahashi Yoshiaki attending the Opening Ceremony.

The first day’s competitions early rounds reinforced the dominance of the Asian giants, but Round 1 brought immediate drama as Germany’s Lukas Kramer nearly toppled China’s Ma Tianfang. The momentum shifted again in Round 5 when Korea handed China a critical defeat, only for Japan to stop Korea in Round 6. Round 7 saw China rebound with a decisive win over Japan, creating a three-way tie heading into the final round.

In one of the closest finishes in WAGC history, all three leaders—China, Japan, and Korea—ended with 7–1 records. The championship was ultimately decided on tiebreakers, with a single SOS point—determined by the result of Turkey’s final game—giving China the edge. Japan secured second place over Korea by SOSOS.

Throughout the tournament, chief referee and 9-dan professional Michael Redmond provided expert commentary, while fans around the globe engaged through live broadcasts and digital game records.

Mr Yōkō Takemiya, President of the International Go Federation, praised the event:“The 2025 World Amateur Go Championship in Vancouver has set a new benchmark for international collaboration and the spirit of Go. It was a tournament not only of brilliant moves on the board, but of unity, friendship, and cultural exchange. This event proves that Go truly belongs to the world.”

Mr Stephan Fox, President of the Alliance of Independent Recognised Members of Sport (AIMS), also expressed admiration:

“The World Go Championship in Vancouver stands as a shining example of how sport transcends borders. Go is more than a game—it is a universal language of respect, strategy, and peace. AIMS is proud to stand alongside the International Go Federation in celebrating this global gathering of minds and cultures.”

The championship concluded with a scenic tour of Vancouver and a final celebration banquet, reinforcing the tournament’s legacy as not just a competition, but a global celebration of unity through the timeless art of Go.