中国象棋“窝案”开庭：王天一涉“买棋”22笔 检方给出量刑意见

Core Viewpoint - The corruption case involving Chinese chess players has seen dramatic developments, with two prominent players, Wang Tianyi and Zhao Xinxin, changing their stance to "plead guilty and accept punishment" before the trial [1][2]. Summary by Sections Case Overview - On May 9, 2025, the Hangzhou Shangcheng District People's Court began the trial of six former Chinese chess masters, including Wang Tianyi and Zhao Xinxin, for bribery and accepting bribes from non-state personnel [2][5]. - Initially, only three of the six defendants had pleaded guilty, but Wang Tianyi and Zhao Xinxin later decided to do so as well [5][6]. Charges and Sentencing Recommendations - The prosecution suggested a sentence of 2 years and 9 months for Wang Tianyi, who was accused of 22 counts of bribery totaling 942,000 yuan and 2 counts of accepting bribes amounting to 116,000 yuan [2][14]. - Zhao Xinxin faces the highest charges among the defendants, with a recommended sentence of 4 years and 9 months for similar offenses [12][14]. Details of the Allegations - Wang Tianyi allegedly received bribes from other players to manipulate game outcomes, while also paying opponents to ensure his victories [7][8]. - A significant portion of Wang Tianyi's bribery was facilitated through another player, Wang Yuefei, who acted as an intermediary [8][10]. Background of Defendants - Wang Tianyi, born in 1989, has been a top-ranked chess player for over a decade, while Zhao Xinxin, born in 1988, is also a notable figure in the chess community, serving as a coach in addition to competing [10][11]. - Other defendants include Xu Chao, Xie Jing, and Wang Yuefei, each facing varying charges and recommended sentences [14][15][16]. Current Status - As of May 12, 2025, the court has not yet delivered a verdict on the case involving Wang Tianyi and others [18].