Rapid and Blitz Tournaments 2026: FIDE Extends Fee Waiver
The FIDE Council has announced that it will continue waiving rating fees for all Rapid and Blitz tournaments until 2026. This decision aims to encourage more players to participate and promote chess worldwide. (Rapid and Blitz Tournaments 2026)
Why is This Important?
FIDE (the International Chess Federation) usually charges rating fees for tournaments. These fees are covered by national federations and are part of FIDE’s Financial Regulations. However, FIDE has the power to waive these fees, and it has chosen to do so for Rapid and Blitz events.
The Impact So Far
Since the fee waiver began in 2021, nearly 60,000 Rapid and Blitz tournaments have been rated. The waived fees total over €2.2 million.
FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich explained that this helps not only federations and organizers but also players.
“While rating fees generate revenue for FIDE, waiving them benefits the chess community. Federations can use these savings to increase prize funds and create more opportunities for players.”
Organizers Welcome the Decision
Nebojsa Baralic, an International Arbiter and experienced tournament organizer, praised the move.
“This reduces financial pressure on organizers and federations. It encourages more Rapid and Blitz events, especially in areas with limited resources.”
Baralic also highlighted that with fewer financial constraints, organizers can focus on improving event quality and accessibility.
Immediate Implementation
The fee waiver has been officially added to the FIDE Handbook and is effective immediately.
This is great news for chess players, organizers, and federations worldwide. More tournaments mean more opportunities, stronger competition, and greater growth for the game we all love.
Photos: FIDE_chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
