7. Internationale Unterländer Schachtage takes place from July 30 to August 2, 2026 in Heilbronn-Biberach, Germany. This summer event returns to Böllingertalhalle with a classical format, three parallel tournaments, and a broad prize structure for different playing levels.

This is a chess tournament in Heilbronn-Biberach, Germany, in 2026. Players compete over seven rounds, and the event combines FIDE-rated and DWZ-rated sections in one practical four-day schedule.

Moreover, the tournament offers a strong overall setup for club players, ambitious juniors, and experienced open-tournament regulars. The guaranteed main cash prizes total EUR 5,525, which is approximately USD 6,363, while additional category and team prizes add even more competitive value.

📌 Event Details

⏱️ Time Control & Pairings

The tournament uses a 7-round Swiss system with a full classical time control. Each player receives 90 minutes for the first 40 moves, then 30 more minutes to finish the game, plus a 30-second increment from move one. As a result, the event gives players enough time for serious over-the-board chess instead of a compressed rapid-style weekend.

Section eligibility follows DWZ limits, while seeding and prize-related ranking use TWZ, which is the higher of Elo and DWZ. In addition, A-Turnier and B-Turnier count for both FIDE rating and DWZ, whereas C-Turnier counts for DWZ only.

Players in A-Turnier and B-Turnier must hold a valid FIDE ID before the event begins. Furthermore, the organizer uses the published FIDE and DSB ratings from July 25, 2026 for pairings and section placement. The default time forfeit is 30 minutes, so players should arrive early for every round.

🏆 Prize Fund

The guaranteed main cash prizes across the three sections total EUR 5,525, or about USD 6,363. Therefore, the event offers a strong headline prize structure even before the additional rating, category, and team prizes come into play.

Beyond the main standings, the tournament also includes extra prizes in all three sections. These awards cover rating categories, women’s prizes, older-player categories, youth groups, and team standings. However, double prizes do not apply, so each player receives only the highest-value award for which they qualify.

👥 Sections / Groups

The field is split into three tournaments, and each section targets a different rating range. At the same time, the structure still gives players flexibility because a lower-rated player may enter a higher section if desired.

Because of this setup, stronger players can aim for the top open, while developing players can choose a more balanced section. In addition, the separate team classification gives clubs another reason to travel together.

🗓️ Schedule

The event follows a compact four-day schedule. First, players arrive on Thursday afternoon and start with round 1 the same day. After that, Friday and Saturday each feature two rounds, while Sunday closes the tournament with the final two games.

This rhythm keeps the tournament demanding but still manageable. Consequently, players get a true classical event without an overly long stay.

📝 Registration

Players register through the online form or by email, and the entry becomes valid after payment arrives. Early-booking prices apply through June 30, 2026. From July 1, 2026, the organizer adds a EUR 10 surcharge.

Refund conditions are also clear. Full refunds apply through July 13, 2026. Then, from July 14 to July 25, players receive a refund minus EUR 10. After July 25, no refund applies.

🏢 Organizer

Schachfreunde HN-Biberach 1978 e.V. organizes the Unterländer Schachtage and manages registration, player communication, and local tournament operations. In addition, the club continues to develop this event as one of the notable summer opens in the region.

Phone: +49 176 8435 7402
Email: info@unterlaender-schachtage.de

📍 Venue

Böllingertalhalle, Bibersteige 15, 74078 Heilbronn-Biberach, Germany

The playing site is a large multipurpose hall in the Biberach district of Heilbronn. Therefore, it fits a three-section tournament well and gives the event enough space for both players and club teams. Nearby services and local hotel options also make the stay easier for visiting participants.

🚆 How to Get There

Most international visitors will arrive through Stuttgart Airport or through Heilbronn Hauptbahnhof. From there, players can continue by car or local public transport toward Biberach. In addition, drivers benefit from straightforward road access, and Biberach lies outside Heilbronn’s low-emission zone.

This German summer open is a strong choice for players who want a serious classical event with flexible section options and a well-developed prize structure.