Kanpur: The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur), through its Chess Club in association with SBI General Insurance Company Ltd. (SBI GIC), co-powered by SBI, is set to host the institute’s first-ever FIDE-rated Open Rapid Chess Tournament on 7 February 2026. This landmark event brings an officially rated international chess tournament to the IIT Kanpur campus and is open to chess players nationwide.
The tournament will be held at the Yoga Hall, New Students’ Activity Centre (SAC), IIT Kanpur, starting at 9:00 AM onwards. Conducted in a 9-round Swiss System format, the competition will follow a rapid time control of 10 minutes plus 5 seconds increment per move, in accordance with FIDE regulations.
With a total prize pool of ₹2,00,000, the tournament offers substantial incentives for participants across categories. The winner will receive ₹40,000, followed by ₹25,000 for second place and ₹15,000 for third place, with cash prizes extending up to the 20th rank. To promote inclusive participation, special prizes have been earmarked for Best Veteran (50+), Best Woman, and players across rating categories (1600–1799, 1400–1599, and Unrated). In addition, exclusive awards for the top three “Best IIT Kanpur Players” have been instituted to encourage campus talent.
The tournament also places strong emphasis on nurturing young chess enthusiasts. Trophies will be awarded to the top three performers in junior age categories: Under-8, Under-10, Under-12, Under-14, and Under-16.
Registrations are open until 3 February 2026 (5:00 PM). Interested participants can access the detailed brochure, registration links, and supporting documents by scanning the QR code provided in the event materials. The standard entry fee is ₹1,000, while a concessional fee of ₹800 is available for IIT Kanpur students and community members. Entry is free for Grandmasters (GMs), Women Grandmasters (WGMs), International Masters (IMs), and Women International Masters (WIMs).
All participants must hold a valid AICF (All India Chess Federation) registration for the 2025–26 season. Players from Uttar Pradesh are additionally required to have a valid UPCSA (Uttar Pradesh Chess Sports Association) registration.
The Chess Club, IIT Kanpur, looks forward to hosting a competitive and vibrant chess event that promotes strategic thinking, sportsmanship, and a strong chess culture within and beyond the campus.
