CHESS SLOVAK OPEN 2025
Get ready to experience one of Central Europe’s most prestigious chess tournaments! The Chess Slovak Open 2025 takes place from August 23 to 31, 2025, in the historic town of Skalica, Slovakia, hosted at the elegant Hotel sv. Ludmila. This over-the-board, 9-round FIDE-rated event brings together top talents, ambitious players, and chess enthusiasts from all over Europe for a thrilling week of intense battles, excellent organization, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re hunting for rating points, prize money, or lifelong memories, this tournament delivers the perfect summer chess adventure.
📅 Event Overview
- Event Name: Chess Slovak Open 2025
- Dates: August 23–31, 2025
- City: Skalica, Slovakia
- Venue: Hotel sv. Ludmila
- Address: Tehelňa 40, 909 01 Skalica, Slovakia
- Time Control: 90 minutes for the entire game + 30-second increment from move one
- Rounds: 9 (Swiss-system)
- Rated: FIDE and Slovak national rating
📆 Full Tournament Schedule
| Date | Day | Activity | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 23 | Saturday | Arrival & Registration | 14:00–17:00 |
| Aug 23 | Saturday | Opening Ceremony | 17:15 |
| Aug 23 | Saturday | Round 1 | 17:30 |
| Aug 24 | Sunday | Round 2 | 15:00 |
| Aug 25 | Monday | Round 3 | 15:00 |
| Aug 26 | Tuesday | Round 4 | 15:00 |
| Aug 27 | Wednesday | Round 5 | 15:00 |
| Aug 28 | Thursday | Round 6 | 15:00 |
| Aug 29 | Friday | Round 7 | 15:00 |
| Aug 30 | Saturday | Round 8 | 15:00 |
| Aug 31 | Sunday | Round 9 & Closing Ceremony | 09:00 & 15:00 |
🏆 Prize Fund and Awards
The Chess Slovak Open 2025 offers a total prize fund of €10,000, distributed across main standings and category prizes. Highlights include:
- 🥇 1st Place: €2,000
- 🥈 2nd Place: €1,200
- 🥉 3rd Place: €800
- 4th to 10th Places: Prizes from €600 to €100
- Special Prizes:
- Best Woman: €300
- Best Junior (U18): €300
- Best Senior (60+): €300
- Best Slovak Player: €300
Note: Players must attend the closing ceremony to receive their prize.
📝 Registration and Entry Fees
- Who Can Participate: All players with a valid FIDE ID
- Entry Fees:
- GM / IM / WGM / WIM: Free
- Players rated 2300+: €40
- Players rated 2000–2299: €50
- Players rated below 2000: €60
- Late Entry Fee (after August 15): +€10
Please register as early as possible to secure your spot, as places are limited.
💳 Payment Details
- Payment Methods: Bank transfer (details sent upon registration confirmation)
- On-site Payment: Only by prior agreement with the organizer
- Currency Accepted: Euro (€)
🧭 How to Get There & Where to Stay
Skalica, near the Czech-Slovak border, combines historic charm with modern accessibility:
- Closest Airports:
- Bratislava Airport (95 km)
- Vienna Airport (120 km)
- By Train: Trains to Holíč or Senica, followed by a short taxi ride
- By Car: Easily reachable via E65 highway
Recommended Accommodation:
- Hotel sv. Ludmila (tournament venue)
- Hotel Tatran Skalica
- Penzión Club Skalica
Special rates for players are available upon request. Contact the organizers for assistance with accommodation.
👨⚖️ Tournament Officials
- Tournament Director: IO Milan Roman
- Chief Arbiter: IA Rastislav Diviak
These experienced professionals ensure a fair, smooth, and high-quality tournament experience.
🏢 Organizer Contact Information
The tournament is organized by Šachový klub Skalica, under the auspices of the Slovak Chess Federation.
📧 Email: info@chessslovakopen.sk
📍 Address: Šachový klub Skalica, Tehelňa 40, 909 01 Skalica, Slovakia
The club has a strong tradition in hosting top-level events and brings passion, precision, and professionalism to every detail.
🎯 Why You Should Play in the Chess Slovak Open 2025
This isn’t just another tournament—it’s your chance to compete in an international FIDE-rated event, relax in one of Slovakia’s most charming towns, and fight for your share of a €10,000 prize fund. The Chess Slovak Open 2025 promises a first-class chess experience, where competition meets culture and community. Join hundreds of players from across Europe and enjoy a summer tournament to remember—register now and make your move!
Additional Details
Playing Venue - Hotel sv. Ludmila
Prize Fund - €10,000
Organizer - Šachový klub Skalica, under the auspices of the Slovak Chess Federation
Organizer Phone - +421 905 410 990
Organizer email - info@chessslovakopen.sk
Tournament Director - IO Milan Roman
Chief Arbiter - IA Diviak, Rastislav
Time control - 90 minutes for the entire game + 30-second increment from move one
Number of rounds - 9
Tournament system - SWISS
Rating - FIDE
Organizer
The Slovak Chess Federation (Slovenský šachový zväz – SŠZ) serves as the official governing body of chess in Slovakia. Founded in 1993 after the dissolution of Czechoslovakia, it oversees the development and promotion of chess at every level across the country. From organizing national championships and youth leagues to representing Slovakia in international FIDE and ECU events, the federation provides structure, leadership, and resources to nurture both grassroots and elite chess talent.
Through strategic cooperation with local clubs, schools, and international partners, the Slovak Chess Federation plays a vital role in growing the popularity of chess. It manages the national rating system, arbitrates chess titles, trains tournament officials, and supports players with coaching and competitive opportunities. Known for its transparent governance and commitment to excellence, the SŠZ continues to inspire new generations to discover the beauty and depth of the game.
Šachový klub Skalica has established itself as one of Slovakia’s most vibrant and respected chess clubs. Based in the picturesque town of Skalica near the Czech border, the club has built a strong local and regional chess community over the years. With a clear mission to promote chess culture, develop young talents, and organize professional-level events, the club plays a central role in the growth of Slovak chess. It regularly hosts tournaments, training sessions, school programs, and community events that unite players across generations.
The club is best known for organizing high-profile events such as the Chess Slovak Open, attracting international participants and offering impeccable organization and hospitality. Šachový klub Skalica thrives on teamwork, experience, and a deep passion for the game. It continues to foster a competitive yet friendly chess atmosphere that welcomes players of all ages and skill levels.