The Porticcio Open 2025 returns with its signature blend of top-tier chess competition and stunning Mediterranean surroundings. From June 28 to July 4, 2025, players of all levels will gather in Porticcio, Corsica to compete, connect, and enjoy a week-long celebration of chess. Whether you aim for international norms, prize money, or a sun-soaked chess vacation, this tournament delivers a perfect summer chess experience in one of Europe’s most picturesque locations.
📅 Dates and Schedule
- Tournament Dates: June 28 – July 4, 2025
- Opening Ceremony & Technical Meeting: June 28, 2025
- Round 1 Begins: June 28, 2025 (afternoon)
- Rounds 2–8: June 29 – July 3, 2025 (one round daily)
- Final Round & Prize Giving: July 4, 2025 (morning)
📍 Venue Information
Organizers will host the tournament at the Hotel Club Marina Viva, a beautiful seaside resort in Porticcio, just a few kilometers from Ajaccio Airport. The venue offers a unique combination of professional playing conditions and vacation vibes, perfect for families and chess lovers alike.
⏱️ Time Control and Rounds
Players will compete across 9 classical rounds using the FIDE standard time control:
90 minutes + 30 seconds increment per move, starting from move one.
This format ensures balanced, high-quality games while allowing time to explore Corsica between rounds.
🏆 Prize Fund and Awards
The total prize fund exceeds €15,000, rewarding both top performers and rating categories:
- 1st Place: €3,000 + Trophy
- 2nd Place: €2,000
- 3rd Place: €1,500
- Top Female, Junior, Senior & Local Player Awards
- Category Prizes: For Elo under 2200, 2000, 1800, and unrated players
Organizers will publish the final prize structure at the venue and during the opening ceremony.
📝 Registration and Participation
Organizers welcome players of all federations, including titled players, ambitious juniors, and club-level competitors.
To register, you must complete the official registration form and confirm your participation by June 15, 2025.
Eligibility: Open to all FIDE-rated and unrated players.
Capacity: Limited to 250 participants, so early registration is highly encouraged.
💳 Entry Fees and Payment
- GM/IM/WGM/WIM: Free
- FIDE-rated players (≥2000): €70
- Players with Elo < 2000 or unrated: €90
- Late Registration Fee (after June 15): Additional €10
You can pay the entry fee via bank transfer or onsite (cash only) during accreditation. Confirm your payment in advance to secure your spot.
✈️ Travel and 🏨 Accommodation
Getting There:
Fly directly to Ajaccio Napoleon Bonaparte Airport (AJA), located just 20 minutes from Porticcio. Shuttle and taxi services operate regularly to the venue.
Accommodation:
The Hotel Club Marina Viva offers special rates for tournament participants. The hotel includes full-board packages, beachfront access, and family-friendly activities. Early booking is strongly recommended due to limited room availability.
👤 Tournament Management
- Tournament Director: Léo Battesti – Former Vice-President of the French Chess Federation and Corsican Chess visionary
- Chief Arbiter: IA Stéphane Escafre – FIDE International Arbiter with experience at elite global events
🏛️ Organizer: Corsican Chess League
The Corsican Chess League (Ligue Corse des Échecs) has revolutionized chess in the region through dynamic events, school programs, and international festivals. The League promotes chess as a cultural and educational tool across Corsica and beyond.
Contact Information:
📍 Address: 1 Rue Jean Nicoli, 20000 Ajaccio, Corsica, France
📞 Phone: +33 4 95 21 21 00
✉️ Email: contact@liguecorse-echecs.com
🌞 Why You Should Play in Porticcio Open 2025
Imagine competing in a strong, internationally rated tournament while basking in Mediterranean sunshine, enjoying gourmet French-Corsican cuisine, and relaxing on white sandy beaches. The Porticcio Open offers more than just chess — it delivers a vibrant cultural experience, friendly atmosphere, and professional standards. Whether you’re chasing your next norm, climbing the Elo ladder, or simply enjoying a chess vacation, Porticcio Open 2025 is your summer destination. Join the tradition, play with passion, and make unforgettable memories in Corsica!
Additional Details
Playing Venue - Hotel Club Marina Viva
Prize Fund - €15,000
Organizer - Corsican Chess League
Organizer Phone - +33 4 95 21 21 00
Organizer email - contact@liguecorse-echecs.com
Tournament Director - Léo Battesti
Chief Arbiter - IA Stéphane Escafre
Time control - 90 minutes + 30 seconds increment per move
Number of rounds - 9
Tournament system - SWISS
Rating - FIDE