Baku hosts opening ceremony of international chess festival “Baku Open 2026”
Baku, April 30, AZERTAC
The opening ceremony of the “Baku Open 2026” International Chess Festival, co-organized by the Azerbaijan Chess Federation and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, was held at the exhibition center of Baku Crystal Hall.
The event commenced with the performance of the National Anthem.
In his remarks, Mahir Mammadov, President of the Azerbaijan Chess Federation, reported that a record 980 participants are taking part in the festival. He highlighted Azerbaijan’s recognition as a leading chess nation and underscored the high level of state support for the game.
Farid Gayibov, Minister of Youth and Sports, emphasized that Azerbaijan has a well-established chess tradition, highlighting notable chess achievements and high-level state support for sports.
The tournament will feature 150 top-seeded chess players from Azerbaijan, Afghanistan, China, England, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, Türkiye, Ukraine, the U.S., Uzbekistan, and FIDE flag player.
The 9-round Swiss system competition which will consist of 3 tournaments (A, B and C), offers a total prize fund of USD 50,000.
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