Biel International Chess Festival 2025
12.07. – 25.07.2025
The last Biel Chess Festival was a triumph, attracting nearly 800 players from 46 nations, including a delegation of about 20 children who traveled all the way from South Korea for the occasion. With an astonishing 3,815 games played, the event buzzed with energy, uniting the global chess community in a dynamic, unforgettable celebration. The Biel Chess Festival 2025, set for July 12 to 25, is poised to take this legacy to new heights. Boasting an exciting lineup of fifteen tournaments, each more captivating than the last, a challenge is waiting for you, whether you’re a battle-hardened grandmaster or an eager amateur.
The spotlight will soon shine on the elite invitational tournaments—Masters, Challengers, and Chess960—along with the full roster for our iconic Chess Triathlon, all to be revealed in an upcoming announcement. But there’s no need to wait! Get in on the action now: explore the 2025 Open tournaments and claim your spot today!
What’s on Offer:
Classic Opens over several days:
ATO (Amateur Tournament)
MTO (Master Tournament)
WT1 and WT2, held during the final week
A new highlight: The Freestyle Tournament (FSC), this variant formerly known as «Chess960», celebrates its premiere with a classic time control! This 7-round tournament will run in the mornings during the Festival’s first week. Players who also register for ATO or MTO enjoy a 50% discount on FSC entry fees – the same applies to the WT1 and WT2 tournaments.
One-day tournaments for every taste:
Swiss Rapid Fischer Random Championship
Rapid and blitz tournaments
Vinetum tournament for youngsters
Tournament for medical professionals
Simul as Festival prologue on Friday, July 11, given by German GM Frederik Svane
Exciting premiere: the chess problem-solving tournament, organized in collaboration with the Swiss Association of Art Chess Friends.
Accept the challenge!
Test your chess strength alongside the world’s best players and immerse yourself in a unique blend of passion, strategy and conviviality!
For more information:
Tatjana Kraska Horvath, Backoffice/Front Desk, office@bielchessfestival.ch
Florian Zarri answers questions about the policies, arbiter@bielchessfestival.ch
Paul Kohler, Tournament Director, paul.kohler@bielchessfestival.ch
Peter Bohnenblust, President of the Organizational Committee: +41 76 405 80 87
