The Alba Grand Prix Rapid 2025 takes center stage in the charming city of Sebeș, offering two action-packed days of high-level rapid chess. As the second stage of the prestigious Romania Grand Prix circuit, this tournament welcomes chess enthusiasts from across the globe to compete in a historic and culturally rich region. With a significant prize fund, elite competition, and an electric tournament atmosphere, the Alba GP blends tradition, competition, and hospitality into a perfect chess experience. This event forms an integral part of Romania’s chess centenary celebration and promises excitement at every move.

📅 Dates

July 14–15, 2025
This rapid chess tournament unfolds over two days of thrilling and tightly contested rounds.

📍 Venue

Hotel Leul de Aur – Strada Lucian Blaga 8, Sebeș, Romania
The tournament takes place in the elegant conference halls of Hotel Leul de Aur, a modern venue that provides comfort and professionalism in equal measure. Located in the historic center of Sebeș, the venue offers convenient access to local landmarks, accommodations, and transport connections.

⏱️ Time Control

Each player receives 15 minutes with a 5-second increment per move starting from move one.

🗓️ Tournament Schedule

The tournament will run a 10-round Swiss system, with five rounds played each day.

🔢 Number of Rounds

10 Rounds
The event follows a rapid Swiss format, ensuring dynamic pairings and maximum participation.

💰 Prize Fund and Prizes

The Alba Grand Prix Rapid 2025 offers a compelling €25,000 prize fund, recognizing excellence across several categories.

🥇 Main Prizes

• 1st Prize: €3,000
• 2nd Prize: €2,000
• 3rd Prize: €1,500
• 4th Prize: €1,000
• 5th Prize: €800
• 6th–10th: Prizes range from €700 to €300

🎯 Special Prizes

• Best Junior (U18)
• Best Female Player
• Best Senior (60+)
• Best Sebeș Player
• Best Performance in Elo Categories: <1800, 1800–1999, 2000–2199

Each participant may receive only one prize. Organizers will award the highest-ranking prize when applicable.

📝 Registration and Participation

💸 Entry Fees

• Standard Players: €40
• FIDE Masters (FM, WFM): €20
• Grandmasters (GM), International Masters (IM), Women GMs/IMs: Free entry

🧾 How to Register

Players must register via email or through the Romania Grand Prix registration system. Registrations must include full name, FIDE ID, nationality, title, and payment confirmation. Early registration is highly recommended to guarantee a place in the field.

✈️ Travel and Accommodation

✈️ How to Reach Sebeș

You can reach Sebeș easily from major Romanian cities:

• By Air: The nearest airports are Sibiu (50 km) and Cluj-Napoca (140 km)
• By Train: Regular train services operate between Sebeș and cities like Bucharest, Brașov, Sibiu, and Alba Iulia
• By Car: Sebeș is located on the A1 motorway, offering quick access by road

🏨 Where to Stay

• On-Site: Hotel Leul de Aur offers deluxe rooms, standard accommodation, and in-house dining
• Nearby Options: Participants may also book nearby hotels or guesthouses, such as Casa Gemina or Hotel Clasic
  We encourage players to reserve early due to high demand during the summer season.

👨‍⚖️ Tournament Officials

• Tournament Director: IM Gabriel Grecescu
• Chief Arbiter: IA Dinu-Ioan Nicula

This experienced team ensures smooth tournament operations, adherence to FIDE rules, and a professional player experience.

🏢 Organizer – Romanian Chess Federation

The Romanian Chess Federation organizes the Alba Grand Prix Rapid as part of the official centenary celebration. With a long-standing history of elevating chess in Romania, the federation continues to provide quality events that promote fairness, inclusivity, and competitive excellence.

📬 Contact Information

• Address: Strada Vasile Conta 16, Sector 2, Bucharest, Romania
• Email: contact@frsah.ro
• Phone: +40 21 317 12 58

🌟 Why You Should Participate

The Alba Grand Prix Rapid 2025 delivers world-class chess in a setting filled with culture, charm, and competition. As part of the Romania Grand Prix series, this event provides a perfect opportunity to engage with strong international players, earn prizes, and enjoy the hospitality of Sebeș. Whether you’re chasing a top spot or looking to test your rapid skills, this tournament promises memorable battles, professional organization, and a warm chess community. Play, explore, and celebrate a century of Romanian chess where history meets rapid-fire moves.