FIDE is pleased to announce the call for nominations for the Svetozar Gligoric Trophy 2026.
The Svetozar Gligoric Trophy is an award given by FIDE to the individual who displays exemplary behavior promoting the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship in chess.
To be eligible for the Svetozar Gligorić Trophy 2026, candidates must have demonstrated the following accomplishments during the period from September 2024 to September 2026:
– Outstanding gesture or action of sportsmanship during a sporting event.
– Outstanding contribution to the popularization of values and principles of Fair Play.
– Outstanding initiatives on enforcement of integrity and high ethical values.
The Svetozar Gligoric Trophy recognizes sportsmen who exercise the fundamental values of fair play both during and beyond the game. It represents a mindset rather than mere behavior, rooted in the following concepts:
Fairness – To enjoy the victory is not enough. Triumph must include fairness and honesty.
Respect – Written rules are mandatory. Unwritten rules of respect to all are obligatory.
Friendship – Rivalry in sports does not exclude friendship.
Team Spirit – A genuine consideration for teammates.
Equality – Competing on equal terms is essential.
Tolerance – The willingness and ability to accept what you may not agree with.
Care – True champions care about each other.
Nomination procedures
The winner of the Svetozar Gligoric Trophy is selected by the FIDE Gligoric Trophy Award Commission.
Proposals for nominations (Nomination Letter) from Continental Federations, National Federations, and FIDE Commissions shall be submitted to the Gligoric Trophy Award Commission of FIDE at gligorictrophy@fide.com no later than September 10, 2026. Nominations from individuals, including self-nominations, are also allowed, but they should be channelled through the federation associated with the nominee.
Please note that this award pertains solely to nominee’s accomplishments during the period September 2024 – September 2026 and is not a recognition of lifelong career accomplishments.
The Commission’s decision is final and not subject to appeal. The members of the Commission are not required to give justification unless they choose to do so.
The award ceremony will be held during the 46th FIDE Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.