Thessaloniki welcomes once again its historic chess event– the 46th “White Tower” & 8th International OPEN SKG, taking place from January 3 to 10, 2026, at the elegant Porto Palace Hotel.

The event is organized by SA Thessaloniki “White Tower”, ESO Papafi “To Chroniko”, and SA Moudanion, under the auspices of E.S.S.Th.-Ch., and co-organized with Porto Palace Hotel Thessaloniki.

Tournament System

The tournament will feature three rating groups in a Swiss system:

• Group A: ELO ≥ 2000 (9 rounds)

• Group B: ELO 1400–2000 (9 rounds)

• Group C: ELO 0–1600 (7 rounds)

All sections will be FIDE and Greek Chess Federation (ESO) rated (standard time control).
Time control: 90 minutes for the first 40 moves + 30 minutes for the rest of the game + 30 seconds increment per move from the first move.

Prizes

Total prize fund: €4,000, distributed among the three groups.
Additional special prizes will be awarded for:

• Best woman player

• Juniors & girls (U20, U16, U14, U12, U10, U8)

• Senior players

• Best rating performances in each group.

📝 Registration

Registrations are open until Friday, January 2, 2026, at 22:00.
You may register:

• via the online registration form, or

• by email at chess.tournament.skg@gmail.com.

Regulations

The tournament will be held according to FIDE and Hellenic Chess Federation regulations.

Strict Fair Play (anti-cheating) measures will apply, including random inspections and scanning.