The Chess for Freedom initiative, launched by FIDE and the Cook County Sheriff’s Office in May 2021, has grown significantly, promoting the integration of chess as a rehabilitative tool in correctional facilities worldwide. With increasing participation each year, the initiative now includes a diverse range of categories, such as male, female, and juvenile tournaments.

“We believe in the transformative power of chess and its ability to offer hope and a sense of community to those who need it most,” said FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich. “Through initiatives like Chess for Freedom, we are committed to bringing the benefits of this noble game to all corners of society.”

The 4th FIDE Intercontinental Online Chess Championship for Prisoners, set to take place from October 8-10, 2024, continues this tradition, fostering global engagement and offering inmates a chance to experience the positive impact of chess.

Event Dates:

October 8-10, 2024

Event Format:

The championship is open to teams of 4 players across three categories: men’s, women’s, and juvenile correctional facilities.

Each country can register up to three teams:

  - A male team

  - A team representing a female correctional facility (all four players must be female)

  - A team representing a juvenile correctional facility (players under the age of 20)

Additional teams can be submitted for the waiting list in case the tournament organizers seek to complete the 8-team field for each group.

Time control: Game in 10 min + 5 sec per move starting from move 1.

Tournament Structure: (for each category; male, female)

Registration:

Interested participants can register for the championship via the following link: Registration Form. The registration deadline is September 30, 2024.

For more information about previous events and the impact of our Chess for Freedom initiative, please visit our Chess for Freedom website.

Contact Information:

For any inquiries, please contact:

Mikhail Korenman

Chess Program Coordinator at Cook County Department of Corrections,
FIDE International Chess Organizer and Member of FIDE Social Commission

E-mail: Mikhail.Korenman@ccsheriff.org

Tel.: 1-785-906-0402

We look forward to your participation in this unique and impactful event. Join us in celebrating the power of chess to inspire and rehabilitate within correctional facilities worldwide.

Regulations for 4th FIDE Intercontinental Online Chess Championship for Prisoners (PDF)

Official website: chessforfreedom.fide.com/