The Cap St Georges Hotel & Resort in Cyprus has signed an agreement with the International Chess Federation (FIDE) to serve as the official partner for the 2026 Candidates tournaments. The event, set for March and April in Cyprus, will feature top players competing for a chance at the World Chess Championship. This partnership highlights the resort's role in providing premium facilities for the prestigious competition.
The luxurious Cap St Georges Hotel & Resort, located in Pegeia near Paphos, Cyprus, has been selected by FIDE as the ideal venue for the 2026 Candidates tournaments, meeting stringent international standards for hosting a globally significant event. As the official partner in hotel services, the resort will be prominently featured in FIDE's global broadcasts and event branding.
FIDE CEO Emil Sutovsky emphasized the importance of optimal conditions for players, stating, "One of the most important tasks of FIDE is to provide the players with the best possible conditions so they can focus on the tournament." He shared his positive impressions from visits to the resort: "During my first visit to Cap St. George, I was impressed with the grandeur of the hotel and resort, its facilities and amenities. Throughout two months of preparation, and now, after the second visit, FIDE organizing team and I witnessed a dedicated and very professional approach from the hosts. I am sure the players, their teams and everyone attending will have a great experience at FIDE Candidates in Cyprus."
George Ioannou, owner and CEO of Cap St Georges, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership: "We are passionate about providing a wonderful experience for our guests and visitors, while at the same time contributing to the local community. Hosting the most prestigious chess tournament in the world reflects our dedication to excellence and our goal of making Paphos a premier destination for global events."
The tournaments are scheduled from March 28 to April 16, 2026, in Pegeia (also known as Peiya), with a record €1,000,000 prize fund. Eight players will compete in the Open section and eight in the Women's tournament, both in a round-robin format, to determine the challengers for the World Chess Championship titles. The resort offers award-winning facilities, including beaches, pools, a spa, sports amenities, and ten restaurants and bars, blending luxury with Cyprus's natural and cultural heritage.
Regulations, tickets, and further details are available on FIDE's official platforms.