World Chess Championship 1963

The World Chess Championship 1963, held in Moscow from March 23 to May 20, saw Tigran Vartanovich Petrosian defeat reigning champion Mikhail Botvinnik with a score of 12½–9½. Known as «Iron Tigran» for his exceptional defensive skills, Petrosian outmaneuvered Botvinnik in positional battles and demonstrated superior strategic depth. This marked the end of Botvinnik’s historic era as there was no provision for a rematch under the revised championship rules. Petrosian’s calm and impenetrable style set a new standard for positional chess, and his meticulous preparation was evident in his handling of critical moments throughout the match. His victory made him the 9th World Chess Champion, ushering in a new era of precise and resilient play at the top level.

Mikhail Botvinnik – Tigran Petrosian 9,5 – 12,5


Game 1


Game 2


Game 3


Game 4


Game 5


Game 6


Game 7


Game 8


Game 9


Game 10


Game 11


Game 12


Game 13


Game 14


Game 15


Game 16


Game 17


Game 18


Game 19


Game 20


Game 21


Game 22


World Chess Championship 1963
World Chess Champion 1963 Tigran Vartanovich Petrosian USSR

World Chess Championship 1963