FIDE introduces updated Circuit format for 2026–2027
FIDE has officially approved a new and improved format for the FIDE Circuit, which will be used during the 2026 and 2027 seasons. The updated system brings several important changes aimed at making qualification fairer, clearer, and more performance-based.
The decision was approved by the FIDE Council on December 26, 2025, and the new rules will take effect from January 1, 2026.
Two-year Circuit cycle introduced
For the first time, the FIDE Circuit will run on a two-year cycle instead of a single year. Results from 2026 and 2027 will be combined into one final ranking.
Each player’s final score will be calculated using their best 12 tournament results across the two years. If a player competes in fewer events, all results will be counted.
More balance in tournament selection
To ensure fair competition, FIDE has introduced balance rules.
If a player has 11 or 12 results, only four rapid or blitz events can be included. Also, no more than seven or eight events (depending on total results) can come from tournaments with fewer than 50 players.
If a player has 10 or fewer results, these limits are reduced further. This keeps classical chess at the heart of the Circuit while still allowing limited rapid and blitz participation.
Clear path to Candidates Tournament 2028
To qualify for the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2028 through the Circuit, a player must:
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Play at least eight eligible tournaments
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Compete in at least five classical (standard) events
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Include a minimum number of large tournaments with 50 or more players
Even tournaments where a player scores zero points can count toward participation requirements.
New FIDE Open Circuit sub-ranking
FIDE has launched a new Open Circuit sub-ranking. This ranking includes only tournaments with more than 50 participants.
It is designed to highlight strong performances in large open events. Top players from this ranking will earn qualification spots for selected elite events, including the Total Chess Tour.
Tournament strength calculation updated
The method for calculating tournament strength has been improved.
Instead of using the top eight players’ ratings, the average will now be based on the top twelve players. This change better reflects the true strength of elite tournaments.
Expanded rapid and blitz eligibility
Rapid and blitz events are now easier to include in the Circuit.
The minimum average rating requirement has been lowered from 2700 to 2650. These events will still receive reduced weight through existing multipliers.
Total Chess Tour included
The Total Chess World Championship Tour 2026–2027 is now officially part of the FIDE Circuit.
Results from these events will count toward Circuit scores and are treated as standard tournaments for participation purposes.
World Championship bonus adjusted
Bonus points related to the World Championship Match have been adjusted.
The runner-up will now receive fewer points, with the coefficient reduced to 1.5, ensuring better balance between match results and overall tournament performance.
FIDE President on equal opportunity
FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich emphasized the importance of fair access.
He confirmed that the top three players in the 2026 FIDE Open Circuit standings as of September 1, 2026, will qualify for the 2026 Total Chess pilot event. Additionally, the top two players as of January 1, 2027, will qualify for the first leg of the 2027 event.
Clearer regulations and weekly rankings
The updated rules also clarify eligibility requirements such as:
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Minimum number of players and rounds
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Rating thresholds
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Federation representation
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Mandatory fair play measures
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Advance notification for organizers
Official FIDE Circuit rankings will be updated weekly throughout the 2026–2027 cycle.
This new format strengthens sporting merit and creates a clearer pathway from open tournaments to elite chess events.
Photos: FIDE_Chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
