Tournament Info

The 1st Masters Cup International FIDE Rated (Below 1600) Chess Tournament – 2026 is organized by Masters Chess Club under the auspices of AICF, TNSCA, and TDCDA. The event takes place from 12th to 14th September 2026 at the Government Law College, Tirunelveli. 

Approval & Event Codes: AICF Event Code: 484461/TN/2026, TNSCA Approval No: RR-17/TNV/26-27, TDCDA Approval No: 002/R/26-27

Prizes: Total cash prize fund of ₹6,00,000/- along with trophies across various main and category lists.

Prize Categories: Open (Top 25), Rating Category 1400–1550 (Top 15), Unrated (Top 15), Best Female (16 & above), Best Tirunelveli Player, and Age-Category Trophies (Under-07, Under-09, Under-11, Under-13, Under-15 for both Boys & Girls).

Participation Perks: E-Certificates will be provided to all participants.

Terms & Conditions

System of Play: Latest FIDE Rules in force shall apply; Swiss System with a total of 9 rounds.

Time Control: 30 minutes + 30 seconds increment per move starting from move 1.

Default Time: 15 minutes from the start of the round.

Tie Break: Buchholz tie-break system will be applied; cash prizes will not be shared.

Mandatory Registrations:

AICF Registration: Compulsory for all Indian players (₹300/- for 2026–2027) via online mode.

TNSCA Registration: Compulsory for all Tamil Nadu players (₹150/- for 2026–2027) via online mode.

TDCDA Registration: Compulsory for Tirunelveli district players (₹75/- for 2026–2027).

Protests & Appeals: Written protest along with a fee of ₹1,000/- must be submitted within 15 minutes of the occurrence of the incident to the Appeals Committee (refunded if upheld). The Appeals Committee's decision is final and binding.

Prize Collection Rule: Prize winners must collect their prize in person at the venue during the Prize Distribution Function; no third person or substitute is allowed, and prizes will not be given the next day.

Electronic Devices: Wristwatches and mobile phones are strictly prohibited in the playing hall / tournament area.

Withdrawals: A player may withdraw at any stage after informing the Chief Arbiter in writing.

Rights of Admission: Reserved by AICF, TNSCA, TDCDA, and Masters Chess Club.