Istanbul Confirmed as Host of 2026 FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Championships

Istanbul Set to Stage Year-End Chess Showdown

Istanbul, Türkiye, will host the 2026 FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Championships from 25 to 30 December, FIDE has confirmed. The event brings together hundreds of players from across the globe competing for four world titles in the Open and Women’s Rapid and Blitz categories.

Freedom Holding Corp., FIDE’s strategic partner since 2023, serves as the title sponsor of the championships. Under the 2026 cooperation agreement, Freedom supports major FIDE events, chess training centres, school programmes, and talent scouting initiatives worldwide.

Türkiye’s Growing Chess Profile

The return of a major FIDE world championship to Türkiye reflects the nation’s sustained commitment to the game. In 2012, Istanbul hosted the 40th Chess Olympiad, the largest event on the chess calendar, and at the end of 2025 the city successfully staged the FIDE World Youth Blitz and Rapid Championships.

Through collaboration between the Turkish Chess Federation and educational institutions, chess has become widely integrated into schools. Young players such as Yağız Kaan Erdoğmuş and Ediz Gürel are leading an emerging generation.

Defending Champions Expected to Return

The defending champions are among the most prominent names in world chess. World number one rated player Magnus Carlsen won both the Rapid and Blitz titles in 2025, while Aleksandra Goryachkina claimed the Women’s Rapid crown and Bibisara Assaubayeva secured the Women’s Blitz title. All three are expected to defend their laurels in Istanbul.

A Global Hub for Chess

Istanbul’s status as a leading international transport hub, connecting Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas, makes it a practical and symbolic choice for year-end chess gatherings. Its combination of history and modern infrastructure has drawn FIDE President Timur Turlov, who expressed delight at bringing the championships to the city and thanked the Turkish Chess Federation and partners for their ongoing cooperation.

• The 2026 FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Championships take place 25–30 December in Istanbul, Türkiye.
• Freedom Holding Corp. is the title sponsor and FIDE strategic partner since 2023.
• Four world titles are on offer across Open and Women’s Rapid and Blitz events.
• Defending champions include Magnus Carlsen, Aleksandra Goryachkina and Bibisara Assaubayeva.
• Additional information, including the official venue and registration details, will be published shortly.

Source

This report is based on information published by FIDE — International Chess Federation.

Official source: https://www.fide.com/istanbul-to-host-fide-world-rapid-and-blitz-championships-2026/