Norway Chess, one of the world’s most prestigious chess tournaments, will be making a significant move in 2026. After 13 successful years on Norway’s west coast in Stavanger, the tournament is set to relocate to the vibrant capital city of Oslo. This shift marks the beginning of a new era for Norway Chess and promises to bring exciting changes to the event.
The 14th edition of Norway Chess and the Norway Chess Women’s tournament will take place from May 25 to June 5 at the Deichman Bjorvika library in central Oslo. This six-floor architectural marvel is located just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Oslo Opera House, providing a stunning backdrop for the intense battles that will unfold on the chessboard.
Benedicte Westre Skog, the COO of Norway Chess, expressed enthusiasm about the move, calling it “the start of a new chapter.” She highlighted the vast opportunities that Oslo presents in terms of attracting a broader audience, engaging with partners, and inspiring new generations of chess enthusiasts. The decision to bring Norway Chess to the nation’s capital underscores the tournament’s commitment to growth and innovation.
Kjell Madland, the founder and CEO of Norway Chess, extended gratitude to the local sponsors and volunteers in Stavanger who have been instrumental in the tournament’s success over the years. While Stavanger will always hold a special place in the history of Norway Chess, Madland emphasized that Oslo represents a natural progression for the event as it strives to become a global chess powerhouse.
The relocation announcement was accompanied by the exciting news of Magnus Carlsen’s participation in the tournament. As the reigning champion and a chess legend, Carlsen is set to defend his title and pursue an unprecedented eighth victory. The proximity of the tournament to his new home in Stabekk, just a short drive from Oslo, adds an extra layer of excitement for fans eager to see the grandmaster in action.
Norway Chess holds special significance for Carlsen, as he has been a mainstay in the tournament since its inception in 2013. While he has competed in numerous international events, Carlsen has had limited opportunities to play classical chess in Oslo, making the upcoming tournament a highly anticipated event for both the grandmaster and his fans.
In addition to Carlsen’s participation, the Norway Chess Women’s event will feature top female players from around the world. Grandmaster Zhansaya Abdumalik expressed her excitement about competing in the tournament, highlighting the importance of strong women’s events in the chess world. The full lineup of participants for both tournaments will be revealed in the coming weeks, generating buzz and anticipation among chess enthusiasts worldwide.
As Norway Chess prepares to embark on this new chapter in Oslo, the chess community eagerly awaits the thrilling battles and memorable moments that the tournament is known for. With a stellar lineup of players, a stunning new venue, and a commitment to excellence, the 2026 edition of Norway Chess promises to be a landmark event in the world of chess.
The Exciting Move of Norway Chess to Oslo in 2026
Norway Chess, a renowned chess tournament, is gearing up for a significant relocation to the bustling capital city of Oslo in 2026. This move marks a new era for the prestigious event, promising fresh opportunities and exciting changes for participants and spectators alike.
Norway Chess has been a staple in the chess world, attracting top players from around the globe to compete in intense battles of strategy and skill. The decision to shift the tournament to Oslo reflects a strategic move to leverage the vibrant city’s energy and resources to enhance the event’s reach and impact.
The upcoming 14th edition of Norway Chess, set to take place at the impressive Deichman Bjorvika library in central Oslo, promises a stunning backdrop for the competition. With its six floors and proximity to iconic landmarks like the Oslo Opera House, the venue is sure to add a touch of grandeur to the chess matches that will unfold within its walls.
Benedicte Westre Skog, the COO of Norway Chess, highlighted the immense potential of Oslo as a host city, emphasizing the opportunity to engage a broader audience, forge new partnerships, and inspire future generations of chess enthusiasts. The shift to Oslo represents a strategic move towards growth and innovation, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter in the tournament’s history.
Kjell Madland, the visionary behind Norway Chess, expressed gratitude to the supporters and volunteers in Stavanger while underscoring the natural progression of the event to Oslo. The tournament’s relocation to the capital signifies a bold step towards becoming a global powerhouse in the chess world, with Oslo serving as a dynamic hub for the convergence of top chess talent.
The announcement of Magnus Carlsen’s participation in the tournament has added an extra layer of excitement for fans and players alike. As the reigning champion and one of the greatest chess players of all time, Carlsen’s presence in Oslo will undoubtedly elevate the tournament to new heights. His quest for an eighth victory promises thrilling matches and intense rivalries on the chessboard.
In addition to Carlsen’s star power, the Norway Chess Women’s event will showcase top female players vying for glory and recognition in the chess world. With players like Grandmaster Zhansaya Abdumalik looking forward to the challenge, the women’s tournament is bound to captivate audiences with its fierce competition and strategic brilliance.
As the chess community eagerly anticipates the 2026 edition of Norway Chess in Oslo, the stage is set for an unforgettable tournament filled with drama, excitement, and memorable moments. With a stellar lineup of players, a stunning new venue, and a commitment to excellence, Norway Chess is poised to make a lasting impact on the global chess scene.
In conclusion, the move of Norway Chess to Oslo in 2026 signals a bold new chapter for the tournament, with the promise of thrilling matches, top-tier competition, and a captivating chess experience for players and fans alike. Stay tuned for more updates and details as the excitement builds towards this landmark event in the world of chess.
