ChessBase

• When kids take the lead: Tania Sachdev's memorable morning in Kolkata

  International Master Tania Sachdev visited RP Goenka School in Kolkata for what turned out to be a truly memorable interaction. What stood out wasn't just the questions - but the confidence, clarity and leadership shown by children as young as eight. In this heartwarming account, Tania reflects on young minds, the role of sport and the moments from school that stay with us forever. It's wonderful to see what Tania is doing apart from playing chess and commentating - inspiring the next generation!

• NEW: Opening Encyclopaedia 2026

  The new Opening Encyclopaedia 2026 offers comprehensive and easy access to modern opening theory, helping players build, expand, and refine their repertoire with clarity and confidence. With 1,586 in-depth articles, over 40,000 games, and 100 expert video lessons from leading grandmasters, it combines cutting-edge ideas with practical explanations and annotated examples. Designed for players of all levels, it is an essential all-in-one resource to stay up to date with the latest trends and gain a decisive edge in the opening.

• The revival of chess cafés

  The great tradition of chess cafés seemed to be something of the past, but now Sven Rehders, together with several other chess activists, is attempting to revive cafés and restaurants as meeting places for chess enthusiasts. And it is working. A smart app is helping to make it happen.

• Candidates Tournaments kick off on Sunday in Cyprus: Venue, side events and expert forecasts

  With a few days remaining before the FIDE Candidates Tournaments 2026 begin, preparations are intensifying for the decisive contests that will determine the next challengers for the world titles. Sixteen elite players will gather alongside their teams, while organisers plan fan activities, side events and expert commentary to enhance the spectator experience. The festival atmosphere surrounding the tournament reflects growing anticipation for one of the most demanding events in the chess calendar. | Image: FIDE

• A Game That Outlasted the Day (2)

  A month ago Valery Golubenko played what may well have been one of the longest chess games ever seen, measured by number of moves, under the rather restrictive conditions of modern chess life. At move 88, with queen and b-pawn against queen, Golubenko's opponent held for 37 moves, until he missed an only move, and it was theoretically a mate in 47.

• The Birth of a Journey

  Praful Zaveri is the founder of Indian Chess School, where he has trained more than 5000 students. In 2023 he began writing a book, Shat Shat Vande Chess, on the cultural, historical, and philosophical journey of chess, on the 15,000‑year “odyssey” of the game. Now he has decided to make it into a film. Here is the first trailer – and Praful's thoughts on the enterprise.

• Humpy Koneru withdraws from Women's Candidates, Anna Muzychuk named replacement

  Humpy Koneru has withdrawn from the 2026 Women's Candidates Tournament in Cyprus, citing concerns over personal safety amid rising regional tensions. In line with the regulations, Anna Muzychuk has been invited to replace the Indian grandmaster in the eight-player field. Travel advisories and recent security incidents in the Eastern Mediterranean have formed the wider context surrounding Koneru's decision just ahead of the event's scheduled start. | Photo: Lennart Ootes

• Agzamov Memorial: Martirosyan and Uskov share lead on 5/6

  Two players share the lead after six rounds at the Agzamov Memorial in Tashkent, with top seed Haik Martirosyan (pictured) and 14th seed Artem Uskov both on 5/6. Martirosyan has impressed with a series of wins with the white pieces, while Uskov produced a notable upset against Pouya Idani and now faces the Armenian in a key round-seven encounter. A closely packed chasing group remains within striking distance with three rounds still to play. | Photo: Uzbek Chess Federation

• Anzel Laubscher: "Meet your students where they are"

  In this interview feature, WIM Anzel Laubscher reflects on her career in chess education, law and international development, tracing her journey from early tournaments in South Africa to her work with the FIDE Commission for Chess in Education. She discusses formative life experiences, cultural influences and her advocacy for safeguarding and inclusion in sport, offering personal insights into how chess can shape both learning and social responsibility. | Photos courtesy of WIM Anzel Laubscher

• Chess Olympiad: Cloud power for your national squad

  Success in world-class chess is built long before the game begins. With the "Federation Package", developed specifically for national federations, players and coaches gain access to the complete professional ChessBase software, the world's largest chess database, and powerful cloud analysis – at a price that provides up to five times more computing power than individual solutions! A long-term investment that will measurably enhance the performance of the entire team.