The Coronavirus pandemic has caused an unprecedented global crisis. In support of efforts of national governments and people around the world, the International Chess Federation, FIDE, has decided to promote an online international chess initiative supporting spending long hours at home. The goal of the initiative is also to promote the ideals of unity and solidarity, which must be manifested in such challenging times.
From May 18 until June 16, FIDE will join forces with major internet chess platforms in organizing more than 2,000 online tournaments. "Checkmate Coronavirus" tournaments will be played at lichess.org, chess.com, chess24.com, and FIDE Online Arena. There will be almost 80 tournaments a day aimed at all chess players, regardless of age, country, or level of play.
There will also be a prize draw with 1,500 special prizes. Inspired by the Olympic motto (not to win but to take part), we want to give a winning chance to everyone and to reward involvement and participation.
The major prize will consist of at least 64 one-week invitations to the 2021 Chess Olympiad in Moscow with flight and lodging expenses fully covered. Other prizes include souvenirs, tickets to chess workshops, and mini-matches with grandmasters.
On our website (www.checkmatecoronavirus.com) you can find a full schedule where you can choose the tournament type and preferred platform. On www.checkmatecoronavirus.com you can also check out if you have won any of our special prizes. Remember, the more tournaments you play – the bigger your chances to win!
Join this worldwide chess initiative! Take part in the biggest official event in terms of participation and non-stop games running, by any sports federation, ever!
And remember - you can play any time on any platform. Your results do not matter, you can win great prizes anyway!
Stay safe and play chess online! Let’s checkmate coronavirus!
