Tickets are now available for the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026, set to take place in Cyprus from March 28 to April 16. The event, alongside the Women's Candidates, will feature eight elite players in each tournament competing over 14 rounds. Early-bird pricing ends on February 1, with options for standard and VIP access.
The FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026 marks a key stage in the World Chess Championship cycle, where the winner earns the right to challenge for the global title. Held at the Cap St Georges Hotel & Resort near Paphos, Cyprus, the tournament combines high-stakes classical chess with a picturesque coastal setting. Eight players in the open section and eight in the women's event will face off in a double round-robin format, testing their preparation, endurance, and composure across nearly three weeks.
The field includes a mix of former challengers, established super-grandmasters, and emerging talents, promising intense competition where every round counts. Spectators can purchase tickets through the official platform at tickets.fide.com, with standard passes granting access to the playing hall viewing area and fan zone. VIP options offer enhanced perks, including a dedicated lounge, premium seating in the hall, priority fan zone spots, all-day catering, and potential opportunities to play a grandmaster or receive an autographed player card—though these are subject to availability.
Early-bird discounts apply until February 1, and multi-day bookings qualify for savings via promo codes: 2days10 for two days, 3days15 for three, and 4days20 for four or more. Due to limited venue capacity, tickets are expected to sell out quickly, with prices rising as the event approaches. This dual tournament setup provides a unique chance for fans to witness chess at its pinnacle in an idyllic Mediterranean location.