The Norway Chess 2026 will once again transform Stavanger into the world capital of chess. This prestigious super-tournament brings together some of the best players on the planet in both the Open and Women’s tournaments, with equal prize funds and innovative rules that keep fans on the edge of their seats. Known for its unique Armageddon tiebreak system, Norway Chess offers thrilling encounters, world-class organization, and an atmosphere that blends tradition with innovation.
📌 Event Details
| 📅 Dates | 25 May – 5 June 2026 |
| 📍 Location | Stavanger, Norway |
| 🏟️ Venue | To be announced (previous editions hosted at Finansparken Stavanger) |
| 🏁 Tournament Type | FIDE-rated Invitational Super-Tournament |
| 🧩 Tournament System | Double Round Robin with Armageddon tiebreaks |
| 🔢 Number of Rounds | 10 classical rounds |
| ⏱️ Time Control | 120 minutes for the game, with 10 seconds increment from move 41 |
| ⏰ Armageddon | In case of a draw, an Armageddon game decides the winner (Black has draw odds) |
| 🏢 Organizer | Norway Chess |
💰 Prize Fund
Total Prize Fund: NOK 1,690,000 (per tournament – Open & Women’s)
| Place | Prize (NOK) |
|---|---|
| 1st | 700,000 |
| 2nd | 350,000 |
| 3rd | 200,000 |
| 4th | 150,000 |
| 5th | 120,000 |
| 6th | 100,000 |
| 7th | 70,000 |
Equal prize money is guaranteed for both the Open and Women’s tournaments.
📅 Schedule
| Date | Event / Round | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 25 May | Arrival Day & Opening Ceremony | Afternoon |
| 26 May | Round 1 | 17:00 |
| 27 May | Round 2 | 17:00 |
| 28 May | Round 3 | 17:00 |
| 29 May | Round 4 | 17:00 |
| 30 May | Rest Day / Side Events | — |
| 31 May | Round 5 | 17:00 |
| 1 June | Round 6 | 17:00 |
| 2 June | Round 7 | 17:00 |
| 3 June | Round 8 | 17:00 |
| 4 June | Rest Day / Side Events | — |
| 5 June | Round 9 & Closing Ceremony | 17:00 |
📝 Format Highlights
- Each classical game must have a winner: if drawn, players immediately play an Armageddon game.
- In Armageddon, White has 10 minutes, Black has 7 minutes, with 1 second increment after move 41. Black wins in case of a draw.
- The tournament ensures equal recognition for Open and Women’s champions.
🏢 Organizer
Norway Chess is one of the most prestigious and innovative chess tournaments in the world, hosted annually in Stavanger since 2013. It has consistently brought together top grandmasters and inspired new audiences with its bold formats and professional organization.
🏟️ Venue
The venue will be announced closer to the event. Previous editions have been held at Finansparken Stavanger, offering modern facilities and excellent conditions for both players and spectators.
🛏️ Accommodation
Stavanger offers a variety of hotels within easy reach of the playing venue. Recommended options include:
- Radisson Blu Atlantic Hotel (official hotel in recent editions)
- Clarion Hotel Stavanger (modern and central)
- Scandic Stavanger City (budget-friendly, central location)
Players and guests are advised to book early as Stavanger is a popular destination in late spring.
🚉 How to Get There
- By Air: Stavanger Airport (SVG) with frequent flights from Oslo and major European hubs.
- By Train: Direct train connections from Oslo to Stavanger (≈8 hours).
- By Car: Stavanger is accessible via the E39 highway.
- Local Transport: Buses and taxis connect the airport, city center, hotels, and venue.
The Norway Chess 2026 promises the same mix of excellence, excitement, and innovation that has made Norway Chess a global benchmark. Fans and players alike can look forward to another unforgettable edition in Stavanger.
Organizer
Norway Chess is a Norwegian tournament organizer based in Sandnes (Rogaland), Norway. Over the years, it has built a global reputation for elite-level competition and modern event production. As a result, the tournament is widely viewed as a benchmark chess festival for top professional play in Scandinavia.
In addition, Norway Chess runs the annual Norway Chess and Norway Chess Women tournaments, featuring decisive formats that blend classical chess with Armageddon tie-breaks after drawn games. The 2026 edition (May 25–June 5, 2026) continues the event’s flagship role on the international calendar. Moreover, the organization supports media-rich coverage and strong onsite standards that consistently attract the world’s leading players.
Furthermore, the team operates with a clear professional structure that prioritizes fair play and smooth logistics for players, partners, and fans. For example, the event is known for high-quality broadcasts and a consistent tournament experience year after year. Consequently, Norway Chess remains a standout tournament organizer for world-class chess in Norway.
