The FIDE Council has announced the extension of its rating fee waiver for all Rapid and Blitz tournaments through 2027.
The FIDE Council stated that the decision aims to expand player participation and promote chess.
These rating fees, covered by federations, are outlined in the Financial Regulations of the FIDE Handbook. According to the regulations, “All rated tournaments are subject to rating fees. The FIDE Council, at its sole discretion, may waive or reduce rating fees for Rapid and Blitz tournaments for a given year.”
The fee waiver was first introduced for the 2021–2024 period. Since then, the total waived fees have approached €2 million.
While rating fees are a source of revenue for FIDE, this waiver is widely welcomed by national federations, as it supports both organizers and players. This initiative eases financial pressures on organizers and federations while encouraging more Rapid and Blitz events. Such support is crucial for the growth of chess, especially in regions with limited resources.
The decision has been added to the FIDE Handbook and takes effect immediately.