Come Join The 2nd “Goris Open” International Chess Tournament 2026 in Armenia

Oct 20, 2026

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The Chess Academy of Armenia and the Syunik Regional Chess Federation are inviting chess players from around the world to take part in the 2nd “Goris Open” International Chess Tournament. Set in one of the most scenic regions of Armenia, this tournament gives players a great chance to compete internationally while enjoying a wonderful cultural experience, & picturesque landscapes of the Syunik region with its dramatic mountain landscapes, and ancient monasteries.

Overall Event Summary

Event Name: 2nd “Goris Open” International Chess Tournament
Dates: November 21 – 28, 2026
Venue & Location: BMG Hotel, Goris, Syunik Province, Armenia
Event Format: 9-round Swiss system across Group A (rated 2000+) and Group B (rated under 2100 and unrated)
Total Prize Fund: 10,000,000 AMD (approx. 26,000 USD)

Tournament Format and Schedule

The event is split into two groups:

Group A: For players with an international rating of 2000 and above. Younger players rated below 2000 can also join with organizer approval and an extra fee.
Group B: For players rated below 2100, along with a limited number of unrated players.

Both sections are played with a time control of 90 minutes for the entire game, with a 30-second increment starting from move one. Play begins with the opening ceremony on November 21 and wraps up with the final rounds and closing ceremony on November 28, 2026.

Prize Fund and Special Awards

The tournament features a total prize fund of 10,000,000 Armenian Drams (approx. 26,000 USD).

Group A Prizes: Main cash prizes range from 2,400,000 AMD for first place down to 150,000 AMD for eighth through tenth places. There are also specific awards for women, senior players (50+), under-16 youth, and top players from the Syunik Province.
Group B Prizes: Main cash prizes range from 300,000 AMD for first place down to 50,000 AMD for seventh place, plus category awards for seniors, women, and younger age brackets (under 14, 12, and 10).
Partner Awards: Partners ChessMood and Chessify are offering extra digital rewards, including multi-month subscription packages and digital credits for top finishers.

Registration Deadlines and Entry Fees

Entry fees depend on player titles, ratings, and when you sign up. Grandmasters, Woman Grandmasters, and players rated 2450 and above get free entry into Group A. For everyone else, registration is split into three deadlines:

Standard Registration: From October 16 to November 10, 2026.
Late Registration: From November 11 to November 21, 2026.