Tata Steel Chess Tournament 2026 Kicks Off in Wijk aan Zee
The Tata Steel Chess Tournament 2026 officially began this afternoon in a packed De Moriaan community hall. The start was slightly delayed due to protests. The 88th edition of this world-famous event was inaugurated by Hans van den Berg, CEO of Tata Steel Nederland, alongside tournament director Jeroen van den Berg.
Known as the “Wimbledon of chess,” the Tata Steel Chess Tournament attracts top grandmasters, rising stars, amateur players, and thousands of visitors every year. The tournament started in 1938 as an internal company competition (formerly Hoogovens) and has grown into a prestigious international event. Over the years, legends such as Viswanathan Anand, Garry Kasparov, Anatoly Karpov, Magnus Carlsen, Max Euwe, Mikhail Botvinnik, Mikhail Tal, and Boris Spassky have competed here.
Battle Begins
This year, 28 top players are competing: 14 in the Masters group and 14 in the Challengers group. After the opening gong, all international masters and grandmasters took their seats for the first round. The Masters group is the youngest in history, with an average age of just 23.
The Challengers group features four women, including Dutch star Eline Roebers, who made history by winning the European Blitz Chess Championship earlier this year.
Community Spirit
At the opening, Hans van den Berg praised the tournament’s unique character:
The Tata Steel Chess Tournament brings creativity, strategic thinking, and innovation together – values central to both chess and our organization.
He also highlighted the important role of the local community and the special atmosphere created every year in Wijk aan Zee.
A Tradition of Chess for Everyone
The tournament combines grandmasters and amateurs under one roof, a tradition that symbolizes connection and accessibility in chess.
Beyond the main games, the event offers activities for the local community, including the annual Tata Steel Chess Festival for families and children.
Fans can follow the games live in De Moriaan or online worldwide. More details are available at tatasteelchess.com.
Photos: FIDE_Chess
Source: FIDE CHESS NEWS
