Chess · International
FIDE changes its Circuit to a two-year qualification cycle
The revised ranking combines 2026 and 2027 results with twelve scores available to count.
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FIDE introduced a revised Circuit format covering the 2026 and 2027 seasons in a single ranking. Council approval came on December 26, with the regulations taking effect on January 1 and the federation publishing its explanation during January.
A player’s final total will comprise their twelve highest event scores across the cycle, or all scores when fewer are available. The rules add a separate Open Circuit sub-ranking and revise tournament strength calculations alongside eligibility for rapid and blitz events.
Limits retain classical chess’s central role. A total using eleven or twelve results can include at most four rapid or blitz tournaments, while restrictions also cap smaller events. The update includes the Total Chess World Championship Tour and changes championship-match bonuses.
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