The Sants–City of Barcelona International Chess Open 2025 brings together players from around the world for ten days of high-level chess in the heart of Catalonia. Set in the dynamic and culturally rich city of Barcelona, this tournament has earned a reputation as one of Europe’s premier open events, combining inclusive competition with a professional playing environment. Chess players of all ages and levels are invited to compete in a welcoming, international setting that offers both challenge and inspiration.

📍 Event Details

• Dates: August 22–31, 2025
• Venue: Civic Center of Les Cotxeres de Sants
• Address: Carrer de Sants, 79, 08014 Barcelona, Spain
• Tournament Directors: Alex Sulleva Baiget & David Ayza Leon
• Chief Arbiter: IA Davide Vega D’Aurelio
• Organizer: Federació Catalana d’Escacs & Secretariat d’Entitats de Sants

⏱️ Time Control

Each game is played using a time control of 90 minutes for the first 40 moves, followed by 30 minutes for the rest of the game, with a 30-second increment per move from move one.

🗓️ Schedule

🏆 Tournament Format

• System: 10-round Swiss
• Ratings: FIDE and Catalan Chess Federation (FCE)
• Sections:

  • Group A – Open to all players
  • Group B – For players rated under 2000
  • Group C – For players rated under 1800

💰 Prize Fund and Awards

The total prize fund for the 2025 edition is expected to exceed €25,000, making it one of the richest open chess events in Spain.

Main Group A Prizes (Example Distribution):

• 1st place: €5,000
• 2nd place: €3,000
• 3rd place: €2,000
• 4th–10th places: Ranging from €1,500 to €400

Group B and C Prizes:

• 1st–5th places: €1,000–€200
• Special prizes: For best junior, best veteran (S60+), best woman, and best local club players
• Additional performance prizes based on rating brackets

Only players present at the closing ceremony can claim their prizes. A player may receive only one prize — the highest available.

📝 Registration and Participation

• Registration Deadline: August 21, 2025, at 14:00
• Entry Conditions: Open to players of all federations with valid FIDE ID
• Groups A, B, and C: Players register for the appropriate group based on their FIDE rating

Players must confirm their participation on-site or via the organizer prior to Round 1.

🛏️ Accommodation

Barcelona offers a wide variety of accommodation ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Players are encouraged to book early, especially for hotels near the venue in the Sants neighborhood. Numerous lodging options are within walking distance of the playing hall, making daily commute easy and convenient.

✈️ Travel and Access

• By Plane: Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) connects with all major European and global cities
• By Train: Barcelona Sants Station is the city’s primary rail hub and is located just minutes from the venue
• By Metro: Use the L1 or L5 metro lines to reach the “Plaça de Sants” station near the playing hall

Barcelona’s excellent transport system ensures a smooth arrival whether you travel by air, rail, or metro.

🏛️ About the Organizer

Federació Catalana d’Escacs and the Secretariat d’Entitats de Sants organize the event with decades of combined experience in chess tournament management. Their dedication has grown the Sants Open into one of Europe’s largest chess festivals. With a focus on accessibility, inclusion, and competitive integrity, they continue to attract players from around the world to this historic Catalan chess celebration.

📇 Organizer Contact

• 📧 Email: ciutatdebarcelona@escacs.cat
• 📞 Phone: +34 93 291 87 01
• 📍 Address: Carrer de Sants, 79, 08014 Barcelona, Spain

🎯 Why You Should Participate

The Sants–City of Barcelona International Chess Open is more than just a tournament—it’s a complete chess and cultural experience. Play high-level chess against international opponents, meet new friends, and explore the historic and vibrant city of Barcelona. From its world-class playing conditions to its welcoming community and generous prizes, this event stands out as one of the most enriching chess festivals you can attend. Don’t miss your chance to be part of it in 2025!

Visit the official website for more information about this exciting tournament or other tournaments at mychess.events.