Baku: The International Chess Festival "Baku Open - 2026" is set to take place in the capital city of Baku from April 28 to May 6. The festival will bring together 150 top-seeded chess players from a range of countries including Azerbaijan, Afghanistan, China, England, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, Trkiye, Ukraine, the USA, Uzbekistan, along with a FIDE flag player.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the tournament will follow a 9-round Swiss system format and will consist of three tournaments labeled A, B, and C. The event boasts a total prize fund of USD 50,000, which is expected to attract strong competition from the participating nations.

The opening ceremony, which is co-organized by the Azerbaijan Chess Federation and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, will be held at the Baku Crystal Hall on April 28. This event will mark a significant gathering of international chess talent in the city, highlighting Baku's role in promoting chess at a global level.