The Gent Open 2025 invites chess enthusiasts to join one of Belgium’s most prestigious summer tournaments from July 19 to 23, 2025, in the historic city of Ghent. This event blends competitive chess with cultural exploration in a city known for its medieval charm and vibrant energy. Whether you’re a seasoned master or an ambitious amateur, the Gent Open offers intense chess battles in a friendly, professional environment.

📅 Dates and Venue Information

The tournament runs from Saturday, July 19, to Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at the Sint-Barbara College, a quiet and spacious venue in the heart of Ghent. The location provides a perfect atmosphere for focused, high-quality chess games.

Venue Address:
Sint-Barbara College
Savaanstraat 33, 9000 Ghent, Belgium

⏱️ Time Control and Rounds

The event consists of 9 rounds using the Swiss system. Each player receives 90 minutes for the entire game, with a 30-second increment starting from move one.

📆 Tournament Schedule

Organizers designed the schedule to balance intense competition with ample time for rest and sightseeing.

• July 19 (Saturday):

  • Round 1: 14:00
  • Round 2: 19:00

• July 20 (Sunday):

  • Round 3: 13:00
  • Round 4: 19:00

• July 21 (Monday):

  • Round 5: 13:00
  • Round 6: 19:00

• July 22 (Tuesday):

  • Round 7: 13:00
  • Round 8: 19:00

• July 23 (Wednesday):

  • Round 9: 11:00
  • Closing Ceremony: 17:00

Players may request up to two half-point byes in rounds 1–5.

🏆 Prize Fund and Prizes

The Gent Open 2025 offers a total prize pool of €7,125, distributed across general rankings and special categories.

General Ranking Prizes:

• 1st: €1,500 + Trophy
• 2nd: €1,000
• 3rd: €700
• 4th–10th: €500 to €125

Special Category Prizes:

• Best Woman: €200
• Best Junior (U20): €200
• Best Senior (60+): €200
• Best Local Player: €200

Organizers will equally divide prize money in the event of a tie.

📝 Registration and Participation

All chess players, regardless of rating, may participate. The tournament features a welcoming atmosphere for both titled players and enthusiastic amateurs.

Registration Process:

• Submit name, date of birth, FIDE ID, and federation.
• Transfer the entry fee to the official bank account.
• Send confirmation of payment to the organizer.

Entry Fees:

• General: €50
• Youth (born after Jan 1, 2005): €30
• FM/WFM: €30
• GM/IM/WGM/WIM and Belgian FM/WFM: Free

A late registration fee of €5 applies after July 16, 2025.

💳 Payment Details

Bank Information:

• IBAN: BE48 7374 2629 4027
• BIC: KREDBEBB
• Account Holder: Koninklijke Gentse Schaakkring Ruy Lopez
• Reference: Full Name of the Player

Players may pay on-site, though this includes the late fee.

✈️ Travel and Accommodation

Travel Options:

• Train: Direct services to Ghent from Brussels, Antwerp, and Bruges
• Car: Easily accessible via the E40 and E17 highways
• Air: Brussels Airport lies just 67 km away

Accommodation Recommendations:

• Comfortable hotels and hostels available within walking distance
• A limited number of free accommodations (with breakfast) are reserved for select GMs/WGMs in student residences

Organizers advise early booking due to high summer demand.

👨‍⚖️ Tournament Officials

You will play under the supervision of experienced tournament officials:

• Tournament Director: Stefaan De Visser
• Chief Arbiter: IA Marc Bils
• Deputy Arbiters: Gwijde Vincent, Jorian Burssens

This seasoned team ensures fair play and smooth operation throughout the event.

🏛️ Organizer Information

The Koninklijke Gentse Schaakkring Ruy Lopez (KGSRL) has led Belgium’s chess scene since 1912. The club actively promotes chess through weekly competitions, training sessions, and major international tournaments. Known for professionalism and hospitality, KGSRL continues to elevate Belgium’s reputation in global chess circles.

Contact Details:

• Address: Savaanstraat 33, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
• Phone: +32 9 223 53 73
• Email: open2025@kgsrl.be

🎯 Why You Should Participate in the Gent Open 2025

The Gent Open 2025 offers more than just competitive chess—it provides you with an immersive cultural experience in one of Europe’s most enchanting cities. You can challenge strong international opponents, gain valuable FIDE rating points, and enjoy Ghent’s historic streets, cozy cafes, and artistic flair between rounds. Whether you aim to win, improve, or simply enjoy the game, this tournament gives you the perfect summer chess adventure. Join the action and make your next move in Ghent!