The Association of Chess Professionals (ACP), a non-profit organisation founded in 2003 to protect the rights of professional chess players, was dissolved this year after two decades of existence. 

Upon the dissolution, ACP decided to dedicate its remaining funds to supporting young players, winners of the FIDE Junior World Championships for players under 20. In addition to the regular prizes, a special ACP Prize of 1,000 EUR will be awarded to the winners of both open and girls sections in the next five years (2023-2027). "In this way, we hope to preserve the legacy of the ACP, at the same time helping the future professionals of our beloved game," reads the statement of the ACP Board. 

The first awardees of the ACP Prize are Marc'Andria Maurizzi, from France, and Candela Francisco of Argentina, the winners of the 2023 U20 World Junior Championships, held in Mexico City this October.

FIDE is very thankful to ACP for their support of young talents and investment in the future of the game!