Mediterranean Stage Set for Chess History: The 2026 FIDE Candidates Come to Cyprus
The road to the World Chess Championship is heading to a brand-new destination!
From March 28 to April 16, 2026, the FIDE Candidates Tournament and FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament will take place in Cyprus, marking the first time this historic event visits the island nation.
Hosted at the luxurious Cap St Georges Hotel & Resort near Paphos, on the beautiful southwestern coast of Cyprus, the event promises world-class chess in a breathtaking Mediterranean setting.
A New Chapter in Chess History
The Candidates Tournament is one of the most prestigious and intense competitions in chess. It decides who earns the right to challenge the reigning World Chess Champion. Since its first edition in 1950, it has been the stage of legendary battles and unforgettable drama.
Now, the 2026 edition brings the action back to Europe after its North American debut in Toronto in 2024.
FIDE Announces the Venue
FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich expressed his excitement:
“The Candidates is the toughest test for any chess player aiming to face the world champion. Cyprus has already hosted two Women’s Grand Prix events, and now it’s time for the most prestigious event in the chess calendar. We thank our partners, Freedom Holding Corp. and the Scheinberg Family, for their continued support.”
The Perfect Setting for a World-Class Tournament
Cap St Georges Hotel & Resort is a five-star luxury venue surrounded by olive groves, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s an ideal place for both players and fans to experience chess at its finest.
FIDE CEO Emil Sutovsky added:
“The setting is nearly perfect — great for players, fans, and media alike. It’s not just about the record prize fund but also about creating an unforgettable event for the global chess community.”
Tournament Details
Two major events will run side by side — the FIDE Candidates Tournament and the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament.
Participants:
Eight of the world’s top players will compete in each event. They’ll qualify through various pathways, including:
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FIDE World Cup 2025
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FIDE Grand Swiss 2025
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FIDE Circuit
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(For women) FIDE Women’s Grand Prix
Format:
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Double round-robin, 14 rounds in total.
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Time control: 120 minutes for the first 40 moves, then 30 minutes for the rest, with a 30-second increment per move starting from move 41.
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No early draws: Players can’t agree to a draw before Black’s 40th move.
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Prize fund: A record €1 million minimum.
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Tie-breaks: If players tie for first place after 14 rounds, a playoff will decide the winner — who will then qualify for the 2026 World Chess Championship Match in November.
For official regulations, visit FIDE’s website or check the venue’s details at capstgeorges.com.
Photos: FIDE_Chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
