The 2026 XTX Markets London Chess Classic

The XTX Markets London Chess Classic returns for a 16th edition in November 2026. Ten of the world’s top grandmasters will compete in an elite chess tournament held at venues across the capital. There will also be opportunities for players of all standards to take part in classical, rapidplay and blitz events held at London Novotel West in Hammersmith. The event is organised by the charity Chess in Schools and Communities which will also be running the LCC Schools Festival for over 1000 children.

The 2026 XTX Markets London Classic will take place between 24th November and 7th December 2026. The event will feature:

• An Opening Ceremony and Blindfold Tournament held in the historic setting of the Tower of London

• An elite all-play-all Masters Tournament featuring some of the top grandmasters in the world

• A 9-round FIDE Rated Swiss suitable for players seeking title norms (ELO 2000+)

• Weekend and Weekday 5-round Tournaments with rating sections (classical chess)

• The Pro-Biz Cup giving people from business the chance to partner with one of our elite grandmasters

• A Super Rapid tournament giving everyone the chance to compete against our chess stars

• Evening Blitz Tournaments for both individuals and teams

• Live Commentary with expert guests, both online and in-person (in-person Rounds 3-9 only)

• A five-day Schools Festival giving children from around the country the chance to visit the London Chess Classic

• the LCC Dinner at The Dorchester, raising funds to support the work of Chess in Schools and Communities

Entry to the Blindfold and Masters Tournaments is by invitation only. Entries to all other tournaments open at 12pm on Tuesday 2nd September.

For all enquiries, please contact Chess in Schools and Communities here.

Past winners of the London Chess Classic