Elevate your summer chess calendar with the 49th International Chess Open, City of Badalona, a nine-round Swiss-Dutch festival running August 3–11, 2025, in Badalona, Spain. Hosted by Chess Cor de Marina with support from the Spanish and Catalan Chess Federations and the Consell Català de l’Esport, this Open splits into two rating-based groups—Group A (FIDE 1950+) and Group B (FIDE 1949 and below)—and offers norm-eligible conditions for title seekers. Whether you aim for IM or GM norms in Group A or vibrant competition in Group B, you’ll enjoy professional pairings, live standings, and a welcoming seaside-city atmosphere.

Across nine classical rounds—one per day—you’ll test your strategic mettle under the 90 min + 30 sec increment format. Between games, explore Badalona’s historic Old Town, sample Catalan cuisine, or relax on the city’s beaches. This Open combines high-level competition with the cultural charm of Barcelona’s coastal neighbor, making it a must-play summer destination.

🎯 EVENT DETAILS

⏱ TIME CONTROL

Each classical game grants 90 minutes per player plus a 30-second increment from move one, balancing deep calculation with a steady pace across back-to-back rounds.

🗓 TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

Players may request up to two half-point byes in Rounds 1–4 by written application before the round.

💰 PRIZE FUND

Prize amounts for top finishers and category prizes (Best Woman, Best Veteran, Best U18/U14) will be published in the final bulletin and awarded at the Closing Ceremony.

📝 REGISTRATION

• Entry fees:

  • €60 (general) if paid by July 20
  • €75 standard (July 21–Aug 2)
  • €90 on-site (Aug 3)

• Free entry for GMs/WGMs/IMs/WIMs (show title certificate)
• How to register: Complete the online form on the official site or email info@escacscormarina.com
• Payment: Bank transfer details provided on registration confirmation; cash accepted on-site before Round 1

✈️ TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION

Badalona lies just 10 km northeast of Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN), reachable via metro L2 to Badalona–Pompeu Fabra or local buses. Centre Cultural El Carme sits in the Old Town next to Badalona Town Hall.

Nearby hotels:

• Hotel Jamaica Badalona (0.3 mi)
• Ibis Badalona (~1 mi)
• Airbnbs across the beachfront promenade

🏛️ ORGANIZER

Chess Cor de Marina is a centennial club dedicated to promoting chess in Badalona. Each year it organizes the International Chess Open, City of Badalona, club championships, rapid and blitz series, and scholastic programs in partnership with local schools. The club’s certified arbiters and coaching staff provide weekly training sessions, masterclasses, and tournaments that nurture talent from grassroots to title norms.

📞 CONTACT DETAILS

• Website: escacscormarina.com
• Email: info@escacscormarina.com

🌟 WHY YOU SHOULD PARTICIPATE

The 49th International Chess Open, City of Badalona blends high-level, FIDE-rated competition with Catalan seaside flair. Rigorous nine-round play, norm-eligible conditions in Group A, and vibrant Group B battles combine with cultural outings, beachside relaxation, and easy access from Barcelona. Whether you’re chasing a title norm or seeking a summer chess getaway, this historic Open delivers unforgettable games and a warm, international community. Secure your entry today and make your move in Badalona!