The World Chess Championship 1960, held in Moscow from March 15 to May 7, saw 23-year-old Mikhail Tal, «The Magician from Riga,» defeat reigning champion Mikhail Botvinnik to become the 8th World Chess Champion. Known for his daring sacrifices and imaginative play, Tal brought a dynamic style to the match, famously showcasing his creativity in the sixth game with a bold knight sacrifice that left Botvinnik struggling. Tal, who qualified by winning the 1959 Candidates Tournament, won convincingly with a score of 12.5–8.5 after 21 games. This victory made Tal the youngest-ever World Chess Champion at the time, and his aggressive, unconventional approach revitalized the global chess scene. His reign as champion would be brief, but his impact on the chess world remains unparalleled.
