In a first-of-its-kind event for Iraq, the Khanzad Chess Club, in partnership with the Barzani Charity Foundation and the Erbil International Equestrian Club, is hosting a major international chess tournament.
According to organizers, the competition has drawn more than 200 players from 15 countries, marking a significant milestone in Iraq’s chess scene. The tournament is being held in honor of the birthday of Kurdish leader Mustafa Barzani.
The event will begin on Friday, March 14, 2025, at 8:30 PM at the Erbil International Equestrian Club and will run for two days.
Players will compete in two divisions: Group A for general participants and Group B for youth and female players. The tournament will follow the Swiss (Fischer) system with nine rounds. Each player will have 10 minutes per game, with an additional 10 seconds added per move.
