The Azerbaijan Chess Federation (ACF) is thrilled to announce the Baku Open 2025, an international chess festival celebrating the game and the rise of Azerbaijani talent. The event will take place at Baku Crystal Hall from April 27 (arrival) to May 6 (last round and closing ceremony).
The festival features three tournament sections (A, B, and C)—all 9-round Swiss tournaments with classical time control:
- Tournament A: Open to players with a FIDE Elo rating above 2250 (Women: above 2100).
- Tournament B: Open to players with a FIDE Elo rating under 2250 (Women: under 2100).
- Tournament C: Open to young players with a FIDE Elo rating born in 2013 or earlier.
- Unrated players may be accepted at the ACF’s discretion.
The total prize fund for the festival is $55,000, with $12,000 awarded to the winner of Tournament A.
Additionally, the first 10 registered players with a FIDE Elo above 2650 (as of April 1, 2025) and women rated above 2450 will receive full board accommodation at the official festival hotel, Ibis Hotel.
Exciting side events
Simultaneous exhibition by a former World Champion Viswanathan Anand (April 27, 2025)
The legendary Viswanathan Anand will showcase his exceptional skills in a simultaneous exhibition against some of Azerbaijan’s most talented young players. This is a rare opportunity to see a chess icon take on the future stars of Azerbaijani chess!
Rapid match: Viswanathan Anand vs. Rauf Mamedov (April 28–29, 2025)
A thrilling rapid match between Viswanathan Anand and the 2025 Azerbaijani Chess Champion promises an intense, fast-paced showdown.
Blitz match: Viswanathan Anand vs. Rauf Mamedov (April 30, 2025)
A high-energy blitz match between Viswanathan Anand and Azerbaijan’s third-rated player will deliver lightning-fast moves and an electrifying conclusion to this prestigious event.
All side events will be held at the Museum of Carpet in Baku, a venue that beautifully blends culture and competition, providing a perfect stage for these exciting chess battles.
We warmly invite chess enthusiasts and supporters from around the world to join us for this spectacular festival. Don’t miss this celebration of chess, talent, and tradition in Baku!
Regulations for Baku Open 2025 (PDF)
Official website: http://www.asf.org.az/