Kurtenkov Memorial 2026 will take place from August 15–16, 2026 at Palace of Chess in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. Atanas Kurtenkov and Bulgarian chess partners organize the two-day memorial for players within the published U2000 rating limit. Therefore, the event creates a compact classical-style weekend for ambitious club players and juniors.

Players will compete in an eight-round Swiss-system tournament. The published time control is 30 minutes plus a 30-second increment from move one. Moreover, the tournament uses an Armageddon game if the leading players require a decisive result after the published tie procedure. The official prize fund is €3,500 / approx. $4,020, with 13 overall cash awards and separate children’s prizes.

Palace of Chess offers seven playing rooms, analysis and rest areas, internet access, parking, a museum, a library and a buffet. In addition, the dedicated chess complex lets players remain in one venue throughout both tournament days. Consequently, players should review the registration rules, schedule, travel arrangements and official resources before making non-refundable bookings.

🗓️ Event Details

⏱️ Time Control & Pairings

The memorial consists of eight Swiss-system rounds. Each player receives 30 minutes plus a 30-second increment after every move.

Moreover, the organizer may use an Armageddon game between the top two tied players to determine the tournament winner.

🏆 Prize Fund

The official cash prize fund is €3,500 / approx. $4,020. The organizer awards 13 overall cash prizes and separate children’s awards after Round 2.

📅 Schedule

The organizer completes all eight rounds over two days. Therefore, players should reserve both full days and monitor the official announcements for the precise round times.

📝 Registration

Players should register directly with the organizer and confirm eligibility under the U2000 conditions.

In addition, participants should provide a correct FIDE ID, rating and telephone number.

👤 Organizer

📍 Venue

Palace of Chess – Plovdiv, Bulgaria

The Palace of Chess is a dedicated tournament complex with seven playing rooms, analysis and rest areas, internet access, video security, parking, a museum, a library and a buffet.

Consequently, players can spend the full competition day in a venue designed specifically for chess.

🚆 How to Get There

Plovdiv connects with Sofia and other Bulgarian cities by train, coach and motorway. Therefore, international visitors can travel through Sofia Airport and continue by public transport, taxi or rental car.

Players should confirm the exact Palace of Chess entrance with the organizer before travel.

ℹ️ Other Information

The tournament applies the published U2000 eligibility rule and uses a decisive Armageddon game when the leading players remain tied.

Key Tournament Rules

Official Resources