The inaugural I Open Internacional Ciudad de Vitoria-Gasteiz 2025 invites chess enthusiasts worldwide to a week-long classical tournament in the vibrant city of Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain. From June 30 to July 6, 2025, players will gather at the renowned Palacio de Congresos Europa for a FIDE-rated 9-round Swiss-system competition. With a generous €3,500 prize fund and dedicated categories for youth, veterans, and club players, the event creates a dynamic and inclusive chess atmosphere.

♖ This tournament blends competitive spirit with cultural discovery, offering participants the chance to enjoy high-level chess in one of Spain’s most sustainable and historic cities. Vitoria-Gasteiz, known for its green parks, medieval streets, and vibrant culinary scene, provides an ideal backdrop for an international chess festival. Whether you aim for a trophy, rating points, or a memorable chess adventure, this open delivers excellence, excitement, and Basque hospitality.

♟️ General Tournament Overview

• Event Name: I Open Internacional Ciudad de Vitoria-Gasteiz 2025
• Dates: June 30 – July 6, 2025
• Location: Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
• Format: 9-round Swiss system
• Time Control: 90 minutes per player with a 30-second increment from move one
• FIDE Rated: Yes
• Hybrid Event: No
• Expected Participants: 100 players
• Chief Arbiter: Miguel A. Almansa Martín (ESP)

🏆 Prize Fund and Category Awards

The tournament features a total prize fund of €3,500, designed to reward both top finishers and players across various age and rating categories.

General Prizes

• 🥇 1st Place: €1,200 + Trophy
• 🥈 2nd Place: €800 + Trophy
• 🥉 3rd Place: €500 + Trophy
• 4th – 5th: €250 each
• 6th – 7th: €200 each
• 8th – 10th: €100 each

Special Prizes

• 👑 Top Female: €150 + Trophy
• 🏅 2nd Female: €100
• 🏆 Top Alava Federation Player: €100 + Trophy
• 🥈 2nd Alava Federation Player: €50
• ♘ Top Martintxo Club Player: €100
• ♘ 2nd Martintxo Club Player: €50
• 👴 Top Veteran (+65): €100
• 👦 Top U18: €50 + Trophy | 2nd U18: Chess prize
• 👧 Top U14: €50 + Trophy | 2nd U14: Chess prize
• 🧒 Top U12: €50 + Trophy | 2nd U12: Chess prize

Rating Category Prizes

• <1900: 1st €100 + Trophy, 2nd €50
• <1750: 1st €100 + Trophy, 2nd €50
• <1600: 1st €100 + Trophy, 2nd €50

📝 Each player may claim only one prize—the highest one they qualify for.

📝 Registration and Participation

Organizers welcome chess players from all federations and levels. You must register early to guarantee your place in the tournament due to limited spots.

• Who Can Join: Open to all FIDE-licensed players
• Registration Deadline: To be confirmed
• FIDE ID Required: Yes
• Rating Limit: No limit

💳 Entry Fee and Payment Instructions

The entry fee structure will be announced soon. Organizers will offer multiple payment methods including bank transfer and online platforms. Early registration may qualify for discounts.

• Discount Options: Possible for early birds, juniors, seniors
• Payment Deadline: Upon registration confirmation

📍 Tournament Venue: Palacio de Congresos Europa

• Venue Name: Palacio de Congresos Europa
• Address: Avenida Gasteiz, 85, 01009 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain

🏛️ This eco-certified conference center offers modern playing halls, climate-controlled environments, and great accessibility for all participants. Located near the city center, the venue allows players and families to enjoy easy access to restaurants, parks, and public transport.

✈️ Travel and Accommodation

🧳 Vitoria-Gasteiz is easy to reach by air, rail, or road:

• ✈️ Nearest Airports: Vitoria (VIT) and Bilbao (BIO)
• 🚄 Train Station: Vitoria-Gasteiz (Renfe services)
• 🚌 Local Transport: Reliable buses and trams run across the city

🏨 The city offers a full range of accommodations—luxury hotels, boutique guesthouses, and budget-friendly hostels. Book early to secure lodging close to the venue.

🎯 Tournament Officials

• Chief Arbiter: Miguel A. Almansa Martín (ESP)

🧩 Why Play in Vitoria-Gasteiz?

✔️ Compete for generous prizes in an international FIDE-rated event
✔️ Discover Basque culture, cuisine, and history between rounds
✔️ Network with titled players and talented juniors
✔️ Experience chess in one of Spain’s greenest and most livable cities