Chess databases: empowering players and educators
The use of chess databases has revolutionized the way chess players study openings, prepare for games and analyze them. By offering an extensive collection of games and theoretical novelties, chess databases provide players with the tools they need to enhance their strategic understanding and tactical skills. This technological advancement has been instrumental in developing many grandmasters and chess enthusiasts alike. A comprehensive chess database such as Opening Master allows players to access thousands of historical and contemporary games, providing insights into different playing styles and strategies. By studying games of the Grandmasters and International Masters, players can identify patterns, learn new opening lines, and avoid common pitfalls. The ability to quickly search and filter games based on various criteria—such as opening, player, or tournament—saves time and makes preparation more efficient. Opening Master and FIDE: A Game-Changing Partnership Since 2004, Opening Master has been a leading publisher of premium chess databases. Their dedication to the growth and learning of the chess community has now led to a significant collaboration with the International Chess Federation Education Commission, FIDE EDU. This partnership aims to support global projects focused on promoting chess as an educational tool. Launched a year ago, the project has already awarded hundreds of newly certified teachers free access to this great tool. Through this collaboration, Opening Master has made its premium chess databases accessible to future chess teachers globally, whether they are in Slovakia, the USA, Nigeria, Brazil or India. Chess does not have state boundaries and does not know race, gender or political views. This initiative is a major step towards integrating chess into educational curriculums worldwide. By providing these resources at no cost, Opening Master and FIDE ensure that aspiring chess educators have the tools they need to teach the game effectively and inspire the next generation of players. Alexander Horvath, CEO of Opening Master and Jerry Nash, Chair of FIDE EDU partner in education projects The Importance of Certification for Chess Teachers Certification for chess teachers is crucial for maintaining high standards in chess education. Teachers who successfully complete the FIDE Preparation of Teachers course gain the FIDE School Instructor title. School Instructors are equipped with the knowledge and skills required to teach chess in a structured and effective manner and to use chess as an educational tool to enhance 21st century skills, academic skills, and social skills in children. They are trained to understand and make use of the educational benefits of chess, such as enhancing critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and cognitive development. With the support of Opening Master’s extensive databases, certified chess teachers can offer students a rich learning experience. They can utilize the vast collection of games to illustrate key concepts, demonstrate different strategies, and provide practical examples. This level of access and expertise can significantly elevate the quality of chess education. The Enduring Appeal of Chess Contrary to Elon Musk’s prediction that chess would be solved within a decade, the game continues to attract millions of players around the world. Elon’s recent tweet (x): “Computers are so much better than humans at chess, it’s absurd. I predict that chess will be essentially fully solved (like checkers) within 10 years.” Emil Sutovsky, the CEO of chess’ global governing body FIDE, replied: “Engines haven’t advanced much for a few years now. Even the task of solving all positions with 9 pieces can’t be completed. It’ll take years to cover 10 pieces, and you have 32. Engines are incomparably better than humans for 20 years now, but no checkers-type solution expected.” The beauty of chess lies in its complexity and the endless possibilities that each game offers. While computer analysis has advanced the game, it has not diminished the enjoyment of playing and competing, especially in over-the-board (OTB) settings. Chess remains a thrilling and dynamic sport where human creativity and intuition play a crucial role. The nuances of human play, including mistakes and brilliant moves, add to the excitement and unpredictability of each match. This is why OTB chess continues to be highly popular, with tournaments drawing large numbers of participants and spectators. Opening Master’s OTB Collection: A Treasure itself Opening Master’s OTB collection, totaling 9.9 million official human chess games, is the greatest collection of chess games available. This vast database is an invaluable resource for players of all levels. It allows them to study games from various eras, understand different styles, and gain insights from the play of top grandmasters. The partnership between Opening Master and FIDE EDU is a commitment to the growth of chess as both a competitive sport and an educational tool. By supporting global projects aimed at promoting chess in schools and educational institutions, they are ensuring that more people have the opportunity to experience the many benefits of this timeless game. The positive effects of using chess databases are profound, and the recent collaboration between Opening Master and FIDE is set to significantly impact chess education. By making these resources freely available to future chess teachers who obtain the title of FIDE School Instructor, they are paving the way for a brighter future where chess is more accessible and inclusive. The enduring appeal of chess, combined with the thrill of OTB play, ensures that the game will continue inspiring and challenging players for generations to come.
FIDE ChessMom Initiative: Applications due May 29
There are only two days left for submitting applications for the ChessMom pilot project. The submission period closes on May 29, 2024. The ChessMom pilot initiative, launched by the Commission for Women’s Chess, aims to support professional chess players who are mothers of infants under one year old. Specifically, the initiative will cover all expenses related to an accompanying caregiver for ten female players traveling with their infants to the 45th Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary. We invite federations, clubs, and players themselves to send their applications, including information about a mother and a child, as well as a Letter of Concurrence from the National Federation, stating that a player is a part of the National Team by filling the following form: forms.gle/9UQUqpvqHCnhZAh88 Currently, we have received applications from Poland, Ukraine, Mauritius, and Eswatini. For more information and confirmation, please contact the Project Leader, Francisco J Cruz Arce. E-mail: fj_007@yahoo.com WhatApp: +1-787-587-3409 Olympiad Registration dates are from April 18 – June 10, 2024 Timeline for ChessMom Submissions May 06, 2024 – Submission Period started May 29, 2024 – Submission Period closes May 30, 2024 – WOM ChessMom Project meeting June 01, 2024 – WOM announcement of selected Players Learn more about the ChessMom initiative here: fide.com/news/2892
FIDE Torch Relay arrives in Colombia to celebrate chess and unity
FIDE is proud to announce the arrival of the prestigious FIDE Torch Relay in Medellín, Colombia, as part of the celebrations marking the 100th anniversary. This momentous event coincided with the XVII Absolute Chess Championship of the Americas. The torch relay, a symbol of unity and the spirit of chess, illuminated Medellín, known for its vibrant culture and nickname “the city of eternal spring.” The relay travelled to five iconic parks: the University of Antioquia, Jorge Eliecer Gaitán Park, Plazuela San Ignacio, Estadio Station, and Chess Park. Each park hosted a simultaneous chess exhibition featuring grandmasters and providing opportunities for community engagement and the promotion of chess. Deputy Chair of the FIDE Management Board, Dana Reizniece-Ozola, assumed the role of torchbearer, passing the flame to Jose Carillo Pujol, Continental President for the Americas, FIDE Vice President Mario Ramirez Barajas, and Weymar Fernando Muñoz Muñoz, President of Colombian Chess Federation. “Chess flame is travelling around the globe, sharing our passion for the game with people in all parts of the world. On the one hand, chess is the most royal and elite sport, on the other hand, it is also the most democratic one, played by people of different ages, genders and social statuses. In other places worldwide and here today we celebrate the universal character of the game,” Dana Reizniece-Ozola remarked. The relay culminated at the Chess Park, a renowned chess venue in Latin America, with the official lighting of the FIDE Torch. This grand finale was accompanied by a small concert with traditional dances. The centenary festivities are followed by a series of chess tournaments, cultural tours, and executive meetings between FIDE, the Chess Confederation for the Americas (CCA), and the Colombian Chess Federation (FECODAZ). Highlights include simultaneous exhibitions by renowned Grandmasters Veselin Topalov, Alexei Shirov and Nikola Mitkov and a special event at La Pola Juvenile Prison. The global FIDE Torch Relay has traveled the world to be a historic celebration of chess, fostering unity and enthusiasm for the sport. So far, it has been passed through India, Switzerland, Ghana, Canada, and Morocco, leaving a trail of excitement and unity in chess. After Colombia, it will set sail to Romania, where it will join two major events – the World School Team Chess Championship and the Grand Chess Tour. The Romanian leg of the Chess Torch Relay is scheduled for July 04.
EDU Commission announces its 17th “Preparation of Teachers” course
Have you long been waiting to earn the prestigious FIDE title of School Instructor? The FIDE EDU 17th edition of the “Preparation of Teachers” course is here to pave your way to success! When: June 7-9, 2024 Where: Online, conducted in English Presenters: Anzel Laubscher and Boris Bruhn, esteemed commission members Target audience: Teachers, chess educators, both novice and seasoned players with fundamental chess knowledge, and individuals with a passion for working with children. Bonus: Unlock exclusive, lifelong access to premium OPENING MASTER chess databases upon successful completion. Read the detailed course description here. Reserve your spot now by registering here. Registration closes on June 3, with only 20 spots available! Note: Titles are conferred during the subsequent FIDE Council meeting and will reflect on FIDE profiles approximately four weeks thereafter. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at edu.courses@fide.
FIDE World Senior Championships 2024: Registration is open
FIDE and the Portuguese Chess Federation invite all FIDE member federations to participate in the World Senior Chess Championships 2024. The competitions will be held in Porto Santo Island, Portugal, from November 16 (arrival) to 29 (departure) 2024. The participants will compete in four categories: age 50+ and 65+, Open and Women. All players shall have reached the ages of 50 and 65 (by December 31 of the year in which the tournament will commence). The top 3 players from each category of the previous World Senior Championships will have personal right to participate. In addition, the top 3 players from each category of the previous year’s Continental Senior Championships are qualified with personal rights and cannot be substituted. The total prize fund of the Championships amounts to 42,500 euros. The deadline for the registration is September 16, 2024. There will be several options to reach Porto Santo Island (43 km northeast of Madeira): direct flights from Lisbon and some other European cities (operated by Easyjet). Additionally, there are two daily direct flights from Funchal, Madeira Island and a ferry from Funchal Madeira Island to Porto Santo. Official website: worldsenior2024.fide.com E-mail: worldsenior@fide.com Invitation letter (pdf) Regulations (pdf) Press release in English (docx) Press release in Portuguese (docx)
FIDE Torch Relay heads to Latin America
The FIDE 100 Torch Relay, marking the centennial celebration of the International Chess Federation (FIDE), is set to light up Latin America Following celebrations in India, Africa, Switzerland, Canada and Morocco, the FIDE100 Torch is making its way to Latin America. The nine-day event in Medellin, Colombia’s second-largest city, will bring together FIDE officials, players and chess fans from the continent. The central ceremony will take place on May 26, when the Torch Relay will make its journey through five public parks in Medellin, all having a chess theme connected to them. The caravan will depart from the Chess Park (Antioquia Chess League) – the only park in Latin America designed specifically for chess. From there, the caravan will make its way to the University of Antioquia, continue to the Jorge Eliecer Gaitan Park and then move to the Plazoleta San Ignacio. The caravan will continue to the Plazoleta of the Estadio subway station before returning to the chess park, a landmark location for chess in Latin America. The nine-day celebration will feature a classical chess tournament – the XVII Absolute Chess Championship of the Americas 2024. Organized by the Chess Confederation for America, the event is a part of the FIDE World Championship cycle and is open to all Chess Federations of the American Continent, featuring some of the best chess players from the Americas. In addition, there will be a Rapid and a Blitz tournament. In addition, the former world champion candidate Veselin Topalov will do social chess activities in a Colombian prison, a pediatric hospital and chess schools of Medellin. Other prominent chess players participating in the events are GM Shirov (Spain) and the U20 junior world champion from Argentina Candela Francisco. “It is a great honor for Colombia to be chosen as the Latin American host of the FIDE100 Torch Relay. Chess has an important place in our culture and a growing interest from the public, and this event will help promote the game further. Latin America has a prominent place in chess history so it’s only natural to have one of the torch ceremonies here. We are looking forward to welcoming the Torch and FIDE officials, and – for a few days – to take center stage in the chess world, celebrating 100 years of the International Chess Federation,” said Weymar Fernando Munoz, President of the Colombian Chess Federation. “We are proud that Colombia is part of our jubilee, and we are thankful for the event they have prepared. In recent years, Colombia and Latin America, in general, have seen chess grow in popularity, and it is only natural for FIDE to look for having more events and chess opportunities hosted in this part of the world,” said Dana Reizniece-Ozola, Deputy Chair of the FIDE Management Board.
Chess for Freedom Conference: List of speakers announced
FIDE is excited to announce the list of distinguished speakers for the upcoming Chess for Freedom Conference, scheduled to take place from June 19 to 21, 2024, in Pune, India. FIDE, in collaboration with Indian Oil Corporation, is organizing the conference, hosted by the All India Chess Federation and the Maharashtra Chess Association. The event aims to explore the transformative power of chess as a rehabilitation tool in correctional facilities worldwide. Registration of participants is open until June 07, 2024, via the following link. Conference schedule: Day 1: June 19, 2024 Keynote Speakers: ● “Chess for Freedom project in India“: Chairman of Indian Oil Corp. will discuss the partnership project. ● “How to achieve 40 facilities in the Championship?“: Adolfo Jesus Toledo Infanzón from Mexico will share details on the Chess for Freedom initiative in Mexico. ● “Supporting Talents in Prisons“: Dr. Cris Fanning, Executive Director, Kansas Department of Corrections, will present online on statewide chess initiatives in the USA. ● “Achievements and the future: Intercontinental Chess Championship for prisoners“: Nebojsa Baralic will highlight past successes and future plans. ● “Chess puzzles in prisons, and their relevance to life on the outside“: Carl Portman from England will present online on the importance of chess puzzles for inmates. On Day 1, conference participants will also visit the Yerawada Correctional Facility, play chess with the inmates, and have a presentation by the prison authorities. The presentation will cover how Indian Oil is implementing chess and other sports programs. Day 2: June 20, 2024 Speakers and Presentations: ● All India Chess Federation will open the day, followed by personal stories from former inmates Steven Maruwo, Hector G. and Emanuel Garcia ● “Step-by-step to implement Chess for Freedom in prisons” by Grandmaster Kevin Goh Wei Ming outlines the exact program ● “Building Bridges: Tips, Tricks, and Encouragement for Successful Volunteer Engagement in Correctional Setting” Lāsma Kokoreviča from Latvia will discuss volunteer engagement in correctional settings. ● “Chess Reinvented: Tailoring Training Strategies for Inmate Learners” Boris Bruhn from Germany will talk about tailoring chess training for inmates. ● “Chess in prisons for resocialization: Evidence-based approach” Mikhail Korenman from the USA will present an evidence-based approach to using chess for resocialization. ● “Social Chess – so much more than a game” André Vögtlin, FIDE Social Commission Chair, will discuss the broader social impact of chess. Panel Discussions and Workshops: ● A panel discussion on “Chess for Youth Freedom” will feature David Acheampong, Kevin Goh Wei Ming, Nebojsa Baralic, and a representative from India. ● A workshop titled “Let’s Shape the Future of the Chess for Freedom” will be conducted by André Vögtlin. Gala and Networking Events: ● The conference will include a gala dinner and awards ceremony hosted by Indian Oil Corp. and FIDE, offering opportunities for networking and celebrating achievements. About the Speakers: Shrikant Madhav Vaidya Shrikant Madhav Vaidya is the Chairman of Indian Oil Corporation Ltd., India’s largest oil refiner and fuel retailer. He is a Chemical Engineer from the National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, with over 36 years of extensive experience in the downstream petroleum industry. Vaidya is a prominent figure in the global energy sector, known for his work on integrating refinery and petrochemical operations. Under his leadership, Indian Oil has embarked on a green transition path to achieve net-zero operational emissions by 2046. Vaidya has also been instrumental in launching initiatives like the ‘Prison to Pride’ program, which uses sports, including chess, to rehabilitate prison inmates (IndianOil). Adolfo Jesus Toledo Infanzón Toledo Infanzón is a key advocate for the Chess for Freedom initiative in Mexico. He has played a significant role in expanding the program to numerous correctional facilities, aiming to reach 40 facilities across the country. His efforts focus on using chess as a rehabilitative tool to help inmates develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Dr. Cris Fanning, Executive Director of Programs and Risk Management, Kansas Department of Corrections Dr. Cris Fanning oversees various programs and risk management initiatives within the Kansas Department of Corrections. She has been a strong proponent of integrating chess into correctional education programs, highlighting its benefits in supporting inmate talents and aiding in their rehabilitation and reintegration into society. Nebojsa Baralic Nebojsa Baralic has been pivotal in organizing the Intercontinental Chess Championship for prisoners, which has seen significant success and growth. His work focuses on showcasing the achievements of inmate chess players and planning future expansions of the championship to include more countries and facilities. Carl Portman Carl Portman is an expert on the application of chess puzzles in correctional facilities and the author of the book “Chess Behind Bars.” He advocates for using these puzzles to help inmates develop strategic thinking and cognitive skills that are beneficial for their lives after release. He will present online on the relevance of chess puzzles to life skills. Steven Maruwo, Hector G. and Emanuel Garcia These former inmates will share their personal journeys of transformation through chess while incarcerated. Their stories provide powerful testimonies to the positive impact of chess on personal development and rehabilitation. Kevin Goh Wei Ming Grandmaster Goh Wei Ming is an accomplished chess player and coach who will discuss the step-by-step process for implementing the Chess for Freedom program in prisons. His presentation will focus on practical strategies and best practices for successful implementation. Lāsma Kokoreviča Lasma Kokoreviča is an officer of a penitentiary authority in Latvia, an expert in volunteer engagement within correctional settings. She will provide strategies for successfully involving volunteers in chess programs, emphasizing the importance of community support and involvement. Boris Bruhn Boris Bruhn specializes in adapting chess training to suit the needs of inmate learners. His presentation will cover innovative methods for making chess education engaging and effective for incarcerated individuals. Mikhail Korenman Mikhail Korenman will present an evidence-based approach to using chess for resocialization. His work emphasizes the measurable benefits of chess programs in correctional facilities, including improved cognitive skills and reduced recidivism rates. André Vögtlin, FIDE Social Commission Chair and President of the Swiss Chess Federation André Vögtlin will discuss the broader social impact of chess, highlighting its role beyond the game itself. As the FIDE Social Commission Chair, he has been instrumental in promoting chess as a tool for social good and rehabilitation.
Unveiling triumphs of 11th Dhamso International Chess Festival
IM Himal Gusain was crowned the DICF Player of the Year in the 11th Dhamso International Chess Festival 2024, while Sandithi Kusalya Alwis emerged as the Women’s Champion of the event. The 11th Dhamso International Chess Festival 2024 took place from 17th to 21st May 2024, boasting a record-breaking participation of 472 players. Held at the prestigious S. Thomas De Silva Memorial Auditorium, Dharmasoka College, the DICF 2024 was a FIDE-rated event offering both standard and blitz championships. The Old Boys’ Chess Association organized this esteemed competition with the affiliation of FIDE, the Asian Chess Federation, and the Chess Federation of Sri Lanka. Inaugurated in 2011, the Dhamso International Chess Festival remains the first FIDE-rated event organized by a school-affiliated association in Sri Lanka. This year’s event offered a total prize fund of one million five hundred thousand LKR, including trophies, medals, and certificates for all participants, along with a special cash prize of One hundred and fifty thousand LKR for the DICF Player of the Year. The tournament featured top players from Sri Lanka and beyond, with International Master Himal Gusain of India leading the ranks. International Master Harshana Thilakarathna of Sri Lanka, second in starting list, also graced the event. Parallel to the main event, the Dhamso International Blitz Chess Championship 2024 unfolded on the evening of May 18th, 2024. Harsha Senatathne and WCM K M Dahamdi Sanudula emerged victorious in the Open and Women categories of the blitz event, respectively. T H D Thisarindu Induwara and C C Weerasinghe secured the first and second runners-up positions in the Open category, while Sethumlee Devhara Palliyage and M Esandi Newansa claimed the corresponding positions in the Women’s category. Left to right: IM Himal Gusain, Raweendra Pushpakumara, K A D Karunarathna, Sasith Nipun Piyumantha (Presiden of Dharmasoka College Old Boys’ Chess Association) In the main event, IM Himal Gusain clinched the Open Championship with a remarkable score of 9.5/10 points, conceding only one draw to IM Harshana Thilakarathne, who secured the first runner-up position with 9/10 points. G W D M Dabarera completed the podium, netting 8.5/10 points. Complete final standings In the Women’s Championship, Sandithi Kusalya Alwis emerged victorious, edging out competitors in a closely contested competition. Four players tied for first place with 7.5/10 points. Based on tiebreaks, Sethumlee Devhara Palliyage and B Yenuthi Sahanlee Perera took second positions, respectively, while J M Theruni Jayasundara had to settle for fourth place. Left to right: Raweendra Pushpakumara, K A D Karunarathna, Sasith Nipun Piyumantha (Presiden of Dharmasoka College Old Boys’ Chess Association),Sandithi Kusalya Alwis The University of Moratuwa claimed the championship title in the Higher Education Teams category, with Sabaragamuwa University finishing second. In the Government Service and Mercantile Teams category, Sri Lanka Navy Western Command and Sri Lanka Navy Southern Command emerged as the champions and runners-up, respectively. The awards ceremony was graced by distinguished guests, including Mr. Raweendra Pushpakumara, the chief guest, who was the first chess coach of Dharmasoka College and former master in charge of chess, who currently serves as the Principal of Sri Sumangala College, Panadura. Additionally, Mr Luxman Wijesuriya, President of the Chess Federation of Sri Lanka, was present, along with Mr Saman Priyantha Wijewickrama and Mr K A D Karunarathna, Principal of Dharmasoka College, further highlighting the significance of the event in the chess community. The success of the 11th Dhamso International Chess Festival 2024 is owed to the generous support of sponsors, including Qatar Alumina of Dharmasoka College, Dharmasoka College Past Pupils’ Association – UAE, AKRA FOTO Digital Colourlab & Studio, INLUCK Computers & Printers, and Panhinda Bookshop. Congratulations to all the winners! Anticipation builds for the 12th edition of the Dhamso International Chess Festival in 2025. Written by Malith Akalanka Photos: Dhamso Chess Facebook
FIDE World Cup Under 8-12: Extra spots available
Dear Chess Friends, As you know, FIDE World Cup Under 8, 10 & 12 will take place in Batumi, Georgia, from June 22 to July 3, 2024. The World Cup will be held in 6 categories: Under 8, 10 & 12, with separate Open and Girls events. The number of players in each group is only 48. The competition will be played in two stages: ● Stage 1 – a 7-round Swiss tournament ● Stage 2 – players who finish in the same position in each group will play against each other. The total number of players is 288 (6 categories X 48 in each category). 228 players are already registered, while another another 28 players are in the process of registration. Since the African Youth Championship coincides with the World Cup, most of the African spots have remained unused. We have openings in the following categories: Open section Under 8 – 2 spots Open section Under 10 – 4 spots Open section Under 12 – 2 spots Girls section Under 8 – 9 spots Girls section Under 8 – 8 spots Girls section Under 12 – 8 spots High-rated players are still welcome to participate in the World Cup. Registration is possible via National federations and individuals (in some cases) until May 29, 18:00 CET. Contact emails – fideevents@fide.com, wcc@fide.com Invitation and regulations (pdf) Prizes (pdf) Promo video: youtube.com/watch?v=ecE8bjwmpl8
FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Team Championships: Registration continues
The chess world is abuzz with excitement as the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Team Championships 2024 are set to take place in the vibrant capital city of Kazakhstan from August 1 to 6, 2024. Following the success of the inaugural event in Düsseldorf, Germany, last year, this year’s championships promise to be even bigger and better with the addition of a Blitz competition. This year’s championships will gather some of the world’s top chess professionals, including former World Champion Magnus Carlsen, who will lead WR Team in defending their title. Both current World Champions Ju Wenjun and Ding Liren will also be playing, and their participation underscores the event’s prestige and promises an exciting experience for both players and fans. Photo: Niki Riga Format The 5 days of chess will feature two formats: Rapid Tournament: A 12-round Swiss system with a time control of 15 minutes per game plus a 10-second increment per move. Blitz Tournament: The Blitz tournament is divided into two stages. In Stage 1, teams are grouped into pools and play a round-robin format. The top 16 teams advance to Stage 2, which is a knockout stage. The time control is 3 minutes per game with a 2-second increment per move. The total prize fund for the event is a staggering 350,000 euros, with 250,000 euros allocated for the Rapid Tournament and 100,000 euros for the Blitz Tournament. In addition to financial rewards, members of the top three teams in each category will receive medals. Registration Registration for the event is now open and will close on July 1, 2024, at 12 PM Lausanne time. Teams must comprise 6 to 9 players, including at least one female player and one recreational player (rated below 2000 Elo). Don’t miss the chance to compete against the best – register your team now to secure a spot in this prestigious tournament. To register, visit the official event website and complete the registration form. Remember, only 80 teams will be accepted, with priority given to the highest average ratings and earliest registrations. Venue Astana is ready to welcome the world’s best chess teams. With its modern infrastructure and rich cultural heritage, the city provides the perfect backdrop for this world-class event. Teams will enjoy the hospitality and vibrant atmosphere of Kazakhstan’s capital and will appreciate the state-of-the-art QazExpo Congress venue. Accommodation Lottery Special offers in the official hotels for the tournament are valid until June 1, 2024. The first 10 teams to book will participate in Accommodation Draw 1, with the winner receiving a full refund and free accommodation. The first 30 teams (excluding the winner of Draw 1) will enter Accommodation Draw 2, where two teams will receive a 50% refund. For more information, visit the official website and follow our social media channels for the latest updates. Don’t miss your chance to be part of chess history in Astana this August. Register now and let the games begin! Registration link: worldrapidblitzteams.fide.com/registration Official website: worldrapidblitzteams.fide.com/ Registration for media: worldrapidblitzteams.fide.com/mediaregistration