European Women’s Chess Championship 2026 officially opened
The 2026 European Women’s Chess Championship officially opened today in Batumi, Georgia!
The Opening ceremony of the event took place in the tournament playing hall, shortly before the start of the first round. The ceremony was attended by the President of the Georgian Chess Federation and FIDE Special Task Director Mr. Akaki Iashvili, Deputy Head of Sports Department of autonomous republic of Adjara Mr. Aslan Baladze, ECU Tournament Director Mr. Petr Pisk, Chief Arbiter of the event Mr. Geert Bailleul, Chairman of the tournament Appeals Committee Mr. Stephane Escafre, member of Appeals Committee Ms. Melia Salome, and other distinguished guests.
In the opening speech, the President of the Georgian Chess Federation and FIDE Special Task Director Mr. Akaki Iashvili welcomed the players and distinguished guests to the most important Women’s chess tournament in Europe which will not only crown the new European champion, but will also determine 10 qualifiers for the next FIDE World Chess Cup. He thanked European Chess Union for entrusting the organization of the event to the Georgian Chess Federation, and wished the players good games and pleasant stay in Batumi.