2025 South African Open Chess Championships
Join the ultimate celebration of competitive chess in Africa at the 2025 South African Open Chess Championships, happening from June 28 to July 5, 2025, in the iconic city of Johannesburg, South Africa. Hosted at the renowned University of Johannesburg, this event will bring together players of all levels from across the continent and beyond for a week of classical chess excellence. Organized by Chess South Africa, this 11-round Swiss tournament offers strong opposition, title norms, rating opportunities, and a vibrant chess festival atmosphere in one of Africa’s most energetic metropolises.
📋 EVENT DETAILS
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Dates | June 28 – July 5, 2025 |
| Tournament Type | Classical |
| Total Prize Fund (EUR) | €12,000 (approximate) |
| Place | Johannesburg, South Africa |
| Venue | University of Johannesburg – Auckland Park Campus |
| Address | Corner of Kingsway Ave & University Rd, Auckland Park, Johannesburg, 2092, South Africa |
| Organizer | Chess South Africa |
| Federation | Chess South Africa |
| Tournament Director | Shaun Levitan |
| Chief Arbiter | Gunther van den Bergh |
| Time Control | 90 minutes for the first 40 moves, followed by 30 minutes for the rest of the game, with a 30-second increment from move one |
| Number of Rounds | 11 |
| Chess-results | Available on chess-results.com |
| Official Website | sachessopen.co.za |
⏱️ TIME CONTROL
The tournament uses the FIDE-recommended classical time control: 90 minutes for the first 40 moves, followed by 30 minutes for the remainder of the game, with a 30-second increment from move one. This time format ensures deep calculation, rich positional play, and enough time to create competitive games that reward preparation and stamina.
📅 TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
| Date | Time | Event |
|---|---|---|
| June 28 | 10:00 AM | Round 1 |
| June 28 | 4:00 PM | Round 2 |
| June 29 | 10:00 AM | Round 3 |
| June 29 | 4:00 PM | Round 4 |
| June 30 | 2:30 PM | Round 5 |
| July 1 | 2:30 PM | Round 6 |
| July 2 | 2:30 PM | Round 7 |
| July 3 | 2:30 PM | Round 8 |
| July 4 | 2:30 PM | Round 9 |
| July 5 | 9:00 AM | Round 10 |
| July 5 | 2:30 PM | Round 11 & Closing Ceremony |
Note: The double round on Day 1 is followed by single daily rounds. All rounds begin punctually; players arriving more than 30 minutes late may forfeit the game.
💰 PRIZE FUND
The total prize fund is approximately €12,000, awarded across top placements, category prizes, and special trophies.
| Placement | Prize (EUR) |
|---|---|
| 1st Place | €3,000 |
| 2nd Place | €2,000 |
| 3rd Place | €1,200 |
| 4th–10th Places | €400–€800 |
| Best Female | €500 |
| Best Junior (U18) | €500 |
| Best Senior (60+) | €400 |
| Best Unrated Player | €300 |
Additional performance-based, club, and rating-class prizes will be awarded on-site.
📝 REGISTRATION
Who Can Participate:
Open to players of all ratings, ages, and federations. All participants must have a valid FIDE ID and comply with anti-cheating regulations.
Entry Fees (ZAR):
- General Entry: R800
- Players under 18 / over 60: R600
- GM/IM/WGM/WIM: Free
- Late registration fee (after June 15): +R100
Registration Method:
Players must register through the official website and confirm payment via EFT. Capacity is limited, so early registration is advised.
Payment & Contact:
- Banking Details: Listed on official site
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: +27 82 926 1313
🏨 TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION
Venue Address:
University of Johannesburg – Auckland Park Campus
Corner of Kingsway & University Road, Johannesburg
How to Get There:
Johannesburg is served by O.R. Tambo International Airport, with easy access to the city via taxi, ride-share, or the Gautrain. The venue is centrally located, with ample parking and nearby public transport options.
Hotel Options:
- Garden Court Milpark – 3-minute drive from the venue
- Protea Hotel by Marriott Parktonian – Midrange downtown option
- AIRBNB near Melville – Affordable and within walking distance
- Linden Guesthouse & B&Bs – Quiet lodging options within 10 minutes
Special tournament rates are available at selected hotels. Contact the organizer for booking assistance.
🏢 ORGANIZER
Chess South Africa (CHESSA) is the national governing body for chess in the country. As the official FIDE affiliate, CHESSA organizes premier national tournaments, rating services, school chess initiatives, and international representation. The South African Open is CHESSA’s flagship event, recognized for its competitive quality and professional organization.
Contact Details:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: +27 82 926 1313
- Website: sachessopen.co.za
- Head Office: Johannesburg, South Africa
🎯 WHY YOU SHOULD PARTICIPATE
The 2025 South African Open Chess Championships is more than a tournament—it’s a landmark experience. With strong international competition, opportunities for rating progress and norms, generous prizes, and the vibrant backdrop of Johannesburg, this is a must-play event for every serious chess player. Whether you’re climbing the ranks or simply passionate about the game, this event delivers competition, community, and inspiration in equal measure.
Additional Details
Playing Venue - University of Johannesburg – Auckland Park Campus
Prize Fund - €12,000
Organizer - Chess South Africa
Organizer Phone - +27 82 926 1313
Organizer email - [email protected]
Tournament Director - Shaun Levitan
Chief Arbiter - Gunther van den Bergh
Time control - 90 minutes for the first 40 moves, followed by 30 minutes for the rest of the game, with a 30-second increment from move one
Number of rounds - 11
Tournament system - SWISS
Rating - FIDE
Organizer
Chess South Africa (CHESSA) is the official national governing body for chess in South Africa, recognized by the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) and affiliated with the International Chess Federation (FIDE). Established to develop, promote, and regulate the game across all levels, CHESSA coordinates national tournaments, manages the official rating system, and oversees provincial and club structures throughout the country. The organization plays a central role in organizing top-level competitions such as the South African Open, National Championships, and Schools Chess events, while also facilitating player development through coaching, training, and international exposure.
In addition to competitive events, CHESSA places a strong emphasis on inclusivity and educational growth, promoting chess as a tool for cognitive development and social upliftment. With programs that reach rural communities, schools, and universities, the federation ensures that chess remains accessible and impactful for players of all ages and backgrounds. By collaborating with FIDE and African continental partners, Chess South Africa continues to build a dynamic and respected presence on the global chess stage.