Commonwealth Chess Championship 2026 Opens in Sri Lanka
The Commonwealth Chess Championship 2026 has officially started in Sri Lanka. More than 500 players from 14 countries are taking part in the tournament, which is being held from May 17 to May 25, 2026.
The opening ceremony was attended by Arkady Dvorkovich and Sri Lanka’s Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage. The event is organised by the Chess Federation of Sri Lanka on behalf of Commonwealth Chess Association and FIDE.
Multiple Categories for Players
The championship features several sections for players of different age groups and skill levels. Apart from the main Open category, there are special events for women and young players from Under-8 to Under-18 in the classical format.
Rapid and Blitz tournaments are also being held during the first three days of the event.
Sri Lanka Hosts the Event Again
Luxman Wijesuriya, President of the Chess Federation of Sri Lanka, said it was a proud moment for the country to host the tournament for the third time in the last decade.
He explained that hosting such a major chess event helps Sri Lanka grow as an international chess destination. It also gives talented local players a chance to compete against strong international opponents.
FIDE Praises Growth of Chess in Asia
FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich praised the Commonwealth Chess Association for bringing together countries with different chess cultures and levels of development.
He also highlighted Sri Lanka’s growing chess community and its commitment to developing the game.
Dvorkovich called this a “remarkable moment” for Asian chess, mentioning the rise of world-class players, major tournaments, and strong federations across the continent.
He added that FIDE will continue working closely with national federations and partners to create more opportunities for chess players around the world.
Sri Lanka Welcomes the Chess Community
Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage welcomed all players and guests to Sri Lanka. He described the tournament as a wonderful celebration of intelligence, discipline, and sportsmanship.
The minister also praised Bharat Singh Chauhan for his incredible contribution to world chess over the past 50 years.
Honouring Bharat Singh Chauhan and Luxman Wijesuriya
The championship also celebrated two major personalities in Asian chess — Bharat Singh Chauhan from India and Luxman Wijesuriya from Sri Lanka.
Bharat Singh Chauhan’s Contribution
Bharat Singh Chauhan is one of India’s most respected chess administrators and organisers.
He played a huge role in developing chess infrastructure in India and Asia through tournaments, school chess programs, and youth development initiatives.
He previously served as Secretary of the All India Chess Federation and was the Tournament Director of the famous 44th Chess Olympiad.
Currently, he serves as:
- Chairman of the FIDE Advisory Board
- Deputy President of the Asian Chess Federation
- Chairman of the Commonwealth Chess Association
Luxman Wijesuriya’s Role in Sri Lankan Chess
Luxman Wijesuriya has been one of the key figures behind the growth of chess in Sri Lanka.
He currently serves as:
- General Secretary of the Commonwealth Chess Association
- Vice President of the Asian Chess Federation
He has helped improve Sri Lanka’s chess structure, tournament system, and international event organisation for many years.
He is also the brother of famous Sri Lankan chess players:
- Suneetha Wijesuriya
- Vineetha Wijesuriya
FIDE Appreciates Their Legacy
FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich praised both Bharat Singh Chauhan and Luxman Wijesuriya for their massive contributions to chess in Asia.
He said their efforts helped build the strong foundation behind Asia’s current chess success. Dvorkovich also thanked them for their dedication and support to the global chess community over the last five decades.
About the Commonwealth Chess Association
The Commonwealth Chess Association was founded in 1980.
The organisation supports chess activities among Commonwealth nations while maintaining neutrality in the internal matters of national chess federations.
Last year’s Commonwealth Chess Championship was held in Malaysia and was won by English Grandmaster Daniel Howard Fernandez.
Official Website: Commonwealth Chess Association
Photos: FIDE_Chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
