The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has ratified a sweeping overhaul of the Open and Women’s World Cups effective from 2027. Designed to make the events shorter, more inclusive and financially rewarding, the new format trims the schedule to 19 days and introduces a Swiss‑system qualification phase before the traditional knockout rounds.

Swiss‑System Qualification Stage

In the opening phase, participants will be divided into separate Swiss pools, guaranteeing each player multiple games. The time control will be set at 45 minutes with a 30‑second increment per move, balancing rapid decision‑making with deep strategic play. The top performers from each pool will advance to a 16‑player knockout stage that continues with classic classical time controls.

Expanded Player Fields

The Open World Cup will grow from 206 to 224 players, while the Women’s World Cup will expand from 103 to 128. New qualification pathways—including the FIDE Grand Swiss, the FIDE Circuit, the Total Chess World Championship, and the highest‑rated senior player—complement existing continental slots, offering broader global representation.

Prize Fund Boost and Distribution

The combined prize pool for the two events rises from $2.67 million in 2025 to $3.3 million in 2027. While the champion’s purse remains unchanged, every participant will receive a payout, and lower‑ranked finishers will now earn more than before, reflecting FIDE’s commitment to rewarding a wider base of competitors.

Strategic Vision

FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich explained, “The new format preserves the unique identity of the World Cup while adapting it to the evolving needs of modern chess. The blend of Swiss qualification and knockout finals will deliver a more engaging experience for players and fans alike.” This shift positions the World Cups as even more prominent gateways to the World Championship cycle, ensuring they remain among the most watched events in international chess.