FIDE and Freestyle Chess Launch 2026 World Championship at Weissenhaus

The FIDE Freestyle Chess World Championship 2026 has officially begun in Weissenhaus on February 13, 2026. This exciting event is jointly organized by the International Chess Federation and Freestyle Chess.

Eight of the world’s top grandmasters are competing for the world title. The tournament is now part of the official FIDE World Championship cycle, giving it full recognition and prestige.

Big Stakes and Big Rewards

This championship is not just about the trophy.

• Total prize fund: $300,000

• Winner’s prize: $100,000

• Top three players qualify directly for the 2027 FIDE Freestyle Chess World Championship

That means every game truly matters. The pressure is high from the very first move.

A Major Step for Freestyle Chess

At the opening press conference, Freestyle Chess co-founder Jan Henric Buettner said this launch marks an important milestone. He explained that the format has developed together with FIDE and is now fully integrated into the official world championship structure.

He also highlighted the women’s exhibition match. Inspired by the long-standing efforts of Judit Polgar, the winner of the exhibition will qualify for a future Women’s Freestyle World Championship. This is a big step toward stronger women’s competition in the Freestyle format.

Carlsen Eyes Another World Title

One of the biggest stars in the tournament is Magnus Carlsen. He arrives in Weissenhaus after winning the 2025 Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour.

Carlsen described the format as “cutthroat.” In Freestyle Chess, there is no room for mistakes. He said he hopes to win but admitted that it won’t be easy.

If Carlsen wins, this would become his 21st world championship title across different formats.

Another strong contender is Vincent Keymer. He agreed that Carlsen is the favorite but reminded everyone that anything can happen in such a demanding format.

FIDE’s Strong Support

FIDE Technical Delegate Pavel Tregubov called Freestyle Chess a challenging and exciting format.

He made it clear that FIDE treats this title with the same respect as other world championships. According to him, this event could become the start of a new tradition in elite chess.

Tournament Format Explained

The event lasts three days and follows a fast and intense structure:

Stage 1: Rapid Round-Robin

• Time control: 10 minutes + 5 seconds increment

• All players face each other

• Top four qualify for the knockout stage

Stage 2: Knockouts

• Semi-finals and Final: Best-of-four matches

• Time control: 25 minutes + 10 seconds increment

• Matches for 5th and 7th place: Best-of-two

• If tied: Armageddon game decides the winner

For every round, the starting position is randomly drawn (except classical position 518). All games begin from the same setup.

This removes opening preparation and forces players to rely on pure calculation, creativity, and adaptability from move one.

Women’s Exhibition Match

Alongside the main event, a special women’s exhibition match takes place on February 14–15.

Former Women’s World Champion Alexandra Kosteniuk faces reigning Women’s World Blitz Champion Bibisara Assaubayeva.

• Format: Best-of-four

• Time control: 25 minutes + 10 seconds increment

• Armageddon if needed

The winner earns qualification for a future Women’s Freestyle World Championship. This makes the match more than just an exhibition — it’s a gateway to the next big stage.

Global Broadcast

The championship is streamed worldwide with live commentary and daily coverage. Chess fans around the globe can follow every move of this historic event.

The 2026 FIDE Freestyle Chess World Championship at Weissenhaus promises thrilling battles, creative play, and a new chapter in modern chess history.