Faustino Oro is only 12 years old, but he already moves in the elite of world chess. The young Argentine, recent winner of the Olimpia Silver Award and distinguished as best youth chess player in the world in 2025, added in the last few hours a recognition that will remain marked in his career. Magnus Carlsen, the number 1 in the world ranking, compared him to none other than Lionel Messi.
The praise came during the "Titled Tuesday" tournament, organized in Oslo by the company Take Take Take, owned by Carlsen himself. There, the Norwegian champion surprised with a forceful statement: "I think Faustino is much better at 12 years old than Messi at 12. He is on a good path, so just accept it and enjoy it. One day, Messi will be lucky to be compared to you if you continue like this".
When he was asked what he feels when he is compared to Messi, Faustino replied naturally and with a shy smile. "Yes, obviously I watch soccer. I like Messi, I watch many of his matches. But I do not focus on soccer. Sometimes I like being compared to Messi and I am happy about it, it is important", explained the young chess player, making it clear that his absolute priority is the board.
