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FIDE Opens Bidding for 2026 Candidates and Women’s Candidates Tournaments
The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has officially opened bidding for two of the biggest chess events of 2026 – the FIDE Candidates Tournament and the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament.
These tournaments will take place between 25 March and 5 April 2026. They are the final step in the race to challenge for the World Chess Championship title.
The Candidates Tournament is famous for its intense battles. It brings together the world’s best players in a test of skill, strategy, and mental strength.
Key Details:
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8 players will compete in each tournament.
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Duration: Up to 22 days.
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Prize funds:
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Open Candidates – €700,000 (up from €500,000 in 2024).
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Women’s Candidates – €300,000 (up from €250,000 in 2024).
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Total minimum prize fund – €1,000,000.
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Organisers must respect FIDE sponsor and partner rights, including broadcast rules.
How to Bid:
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Open to any FIDE member federation or an approved organiser.
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Bids must be submitted between August 12 and October 15, 2025 (23:59 Lausanne time).
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All documents must be in English and sent to office@fide.com.
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The FIDE General Strategy Commission will evaluate the bids.
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The FIDE Council will approve the final host city.
If you want to know more, you can check the full bidding regulations on FIDE’s official website.
Photos: FIDE_chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
