A major boost for Israeli sports: Just 24 hours after registration opened for the Jerusalem International Open Chess Championship, more than 100 players from 23 countries had already signed up. The rapid chess tournament will take place Nov. 26-27, 2025, at the Ramada Hotel in Israel’s capital.
The Jerusalem Open, now in its second consecutive year, is organized by the Israeli Chess Federation in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture and Sport, led by Minister Miki Zohar, and the Jerusalem Municipality under Mayor Moshe Lion. The competition will be open to the public and is expected to draw some 400 male and female players.
Among those already confirmed are competitors from the United States, Germany, Denmark, Belgium, Russia, Belarus, the Netherlands, Bulgaria, Angola, South Africa and Azerbaijan. Organizers note that many of them hold the rank of grandmaster — the highest title in international chess.
Rapid chess, a fast-paced version of the game, gives players limited time for each move, making matches sharper, more aggressive and spectator-friendly.
The prize pool for this year’s tournament totals 30,000 euros.
The Israeli Chess Federation said the Jerusalem Open reflects a renaissance for the game in Israel, with international and local tournaments held nationwide in recent years, from Afula in the north to Eilat in the south, making chess accessible to a broader public.
Leaders welcome international participation
Culture and Sports Minister Zohar called the event “proof of the power of culture and sports to bridge nations and strengthen Israel’s international standing.” He added: “At such a challenging time, it is a source of pride that Israel can host a prestigious global sports event in its capital.”
Jerusalem Mayor Lion praised the event as fitting for the city. “Jerusalem, the city of Israel’s kings, will once again host the game of kings, which develops mental and social skills and provides challenge and growth. I welcome the players from Israel and abroad.”
Dr. Zvika Barkai, chairman of the Israeli Chess Federation, said: “The Jerusalem Open is not only a competition — it is a symbol of Israel’s growing international stature in the chess world. The fact that players from 23 countries have committed months in advance proves the high level of the tournament and its growing reputation.”
Israeli Chess Federation CEO Gil Borochovsky added: “The success of the Jerusalem Open is the result of long-term investment, a clear vision and fruitful cooperation with the Ministry of Culture and Sport, the Jerusalem Municipality and other partners. This is a rare opportunity to bring chess players from around the world to Jerusalem — a city of history, culture and future. Chess is a bridge between worlds, and we intend to cross it in a big way.”