The XLV International Open “Villa de Benasque” has officially announced its dates for 2026, marking a prestigious 45th anniversary for one of the most iconic festivals on the global chess calendar.
Scheduled from July 5th to July 14th, this year’s festival promises to uphold its reputation as a massive gathering of the chess community, typically drawing a field of over 500 participants to the scenic province of Huesca.
Benasque is far more than just a tournament; it is a marathon of elite chess. Last yearโs edition showcased the incredible depth of the field, with players from 34 different countries competing for the top spots. In a thrilling conclusion to the 2025 event, the title was claimed by IM Loic Travadon (France), who outlasted a field of seasoned Grandmasters to secure a memorable victory.
The Format
The 2026 edition will follow a grueling 10-round Swiss System. To manage the large and competitive field, organizers will implement an accelerated pairing system for the first five rounds (Baku regulations), ensuring that top clashes happen early and often.
The technical specifications remain at the highest professional standard:
- Time Control: 90 minutes + 30 seconds increment from move one.
- The tournament is valid for FIDE ratings and, crucially, for achieving international norms (GM/IM/WGM/WIM).
- Schedule: Rounds will take place daily at 16:00h, with the final 10th round moving to a morning start at 09:00h on July 14th.
The Prize Fund
The 45th anniversary brings a substantial financial incentive for the players. The total prize fund has reached a staggering โฌ51,000, with โฌ10,000 and the trophy reserved for the overall champion.
Beyond the general standings, the festival honors the diversity of its participants with โฌ13,750 allocated to special categories, including veterans, juniors, women, and local players from the Aragon federation, alongside various ELO rating categories.
Side Events
True to its festival nature, Benasque 2026 is not limited to the main open. The event features an International Blitz Tournament, along with a series of conferences, film screenings, and parallel activities that turn the entire town of Benasque into a vibrant chess village for ten days.
For players looking to combine high-level competition with the breathtaking natural beauty of Spainโs high mountains, Benasque remains the ultimate summer destination.
