Faustino Oro: 12-Year-Old “Messi of Chess” Targets Record

By Harshit - Oct 17, 2025 04:05 PM
Last updated on Oct 17, 2025 04:05 PM

At just 12 years old, Faustino Oro is already turning heads in the chess world, earning the nickname “Messi of Chess” for his extraordinary talent and competitive spirit. Unlike the football legend he is compared to, Oro is outspoken, quick-witted, and unafraid to discuss his achievements. Having already beaten grandmasters like Magnus Carlsen three times online and Hikaru Nakamura, Oro is chasing the record for the world’s youngest grandmaster, a milestone currently held by Indian-origin prodigy Abhimanyu Mishra.

Despite the weight of expectation, Oro approaches his rise with remarkable composure. He recently secured his first grandmaster norm and crossed the 2500 rating threshold at the Legends & Prodigies tournament in Madrid, leaving him just two norms away from making history. For him, the title is secondary to the joy of playing chess and honing his skills each day. As he puts it, “If I improve a bit more each day, the grandmaster title will appear.”

What sets Oro apart is not just his record-breaking feats but his approach to the game. He blends positional strategy with tactical precision, favoring thoughtful play over rushed victories. Whether facing online legends or seasoned grandmasters in exhibitions, Oro treats each game as an opportunity to learn and grow, maintaining a calm, focused demeanor that belies his age.

Oro’s Unique Chess Style

Faustino Oro describes himself as a positional player with a tactical edge. He focuses on long-term strategies but remains adaptable to dynamic positions when necessary. “I try to win in the end by playing positional chess. I’m not trying to win fast. I try to play good chess and focus on winning the game,” he explains. This strategic balance has allowed him to secure wins against top-level players online and in over-the-board exhibitions.

His approach is methodical yet flexible, allowing him to handle unexpected moves by opponents. Oro studies patterns, anticipates tactics, and rarely makes impulsive decisions. This makes his gameplay not only effective but also difficult to predict, a key reason for his rapid rise in global rankings.

Early Life and Introduction to Chess

Oro was introduced to chess at the age of six by his father, Alejandro, during the COVID-19 lockdown. Before that, the young boy was restless, often kicking footballs against walls for hours. Chess became both a challenge and a focus, channeling his energy into strategy and concentration. In just six years, he has transformed from a curious beginner into a world-class prodigy, demonstrating extraordinary learning ability and discipline.

Even at an early age, Oro displayed remarkable focus and perseverance. His early training sessions laid the groundwork for his rapid achievements, including becoming the world’s youngest international master, surpassing a 2500 rating, and earning his first grandmaster norm. These formative years were crucial in shaping both his skill and mental approach to competitive chess.

Achievements Against Legends

Oro’s record against renowned players is already impressive. Online victories against Magnus Carlsen and Hikaru Nakamura, coupled with exhibition games against five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand, have cemented his reputation as a rising star. “Both Magnus and Vishy are incredible players and legends. For me, it was just a chess game. I didn’t have any pressure because I believe they should have won against me,” he says, reflecting his calm demeanor even under high stakes.

He has played multiple matches against these legends, with notable results. Against Carlsen, he played eight games, winning three, drawing one, and losing four. Matches against Anand have been closely contested, showing Oro’s ability to compete against the world’s elite despite his young age.

Balancing Chess and Education

Unlike many prodigies who dedicate all their time to chess, Oro maintains a strict balance with his education. He attends school daily from 8 am to 12:30 pm, then dedicates six to seven hours to chess practice, problem-solving, and game analysis. Weekends follow a similar schedule, ensuring he neither overexerts himself nor neglects academic growth.

This balanced approach allows Oro to develop holistically, nurturing both his intellectual and social skills. Maintaining discipline while enjoying chess as a sport keeps him motivated and prevents burnout — a common challenge for young prodigies worldwide.

Personality Off the Board

Outside of chess, Oro enjoys football and remains a devoted fan of Lionel Messi, the player after whom he earned his nickname. “Maybe he focuses on winning football games, and I focus on winning my chess games,” he says. He also had a YouTube channel as a child, where he streamed games and analyzed strategies before age restrictions led to its closure.

His personality is a blend of humility, curiosity, and humor. Despite his global attention, Oro remains approachable, friendly, and quick-witted, traits that have endeared him to peers and fans alike. His openness in interviews contrasts sharply with the typical reserved demeanor of many prodigies, making him both relatable and inspiring.

Upcoming Tournaments and Opportunities

In the coming months, Oro will travel to India for the FIDE World Cup in Goa and the Global Chess League, where he earned an ambassador’s spot by winning the GCL Contenders tournament. These events will provide him opportunities to compete against the best junior players and further hone his skills under international scrutiny.

Participation in high-level tournaments is also strategic, giving him experience in handling pressure, managing expectations, and navigating diverse playing styles. These experiences are integral to his ongoing preparation for breaking the youngest grandmaster record.

Focus on Growth Over Records

Despite chasing a historic milestone, Oro prioritizes growth over accolades. “There’s no pressure about the record. I try to play my best chess and enjoy chess,” he says. This philosophy reflects maturity beyond his years and underscores why he continues to improve steadily, game by game.

His focus on self-improvement rather than fame or titles ensures sustainable growth. By treating each game as a learning opportunity, Oro is building a foundation for a long, successful chess career rather than chasing immediate glory.

The Future of the “Messi of Chess”

Faustino Oro’s trajectory indicates a promising future. His combination of talent, discipline, strategic insight, and composure positions him to not only challenge records but also redefine expectations of young chess prodigies. As he approaches the grandmaster title, the chess world watches with anticipation, eager to witness the rise of one of the most remarkable talents of his generation.

With continued dedication, balanced training, and exposure to top-tier tournaments, Oro is poised to leave a lasting legacy. The “Messi of Chess” is not just a nickname — it is a testament to his exceptional skill, focus, and the exciting future that lies ahead in the world of chess.

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