Sardinia is preparing to become the center of international chess for a week. From May 3rd to 10th, the ITI Marina Beach in Orosei will host the third edition of the Sardinia World Chess Festival, a well-established event on the European scene and set to mark a turning point in 2026. The event promises to be the most important open tournament ever held in Italy, with an unprecedented level of technical skill and the participation of leading international players. The tournament is not limited to its sporting aspect: it will also be an official qualifier for the World Cup, confirming its importance within the international calendar. This recognition reinforces Sardinia's role not only as a host, but as a credible platform for events capable of attracting spectators, investment, and global attention.

Over 300 players are expected, hailing from more than 30 countries, creating a mosaic of cultures and traditions united by the universal language of chess. Among the standouts is Russian Ian Nepomniachtchi, vice world champion and current number one in his country. Alongside him is the very young Faustino Oro, just 13 years old, already on the verge of becoming a Grandmaster, and Iranian Parham Maghsoodloo, consistently among the world's top twenty. Also in attendance will be Lorenzo Lodici, former Italian champion and currently the top Italian player with an Elo rating of 2601. International coverage will be ensured by a partnership with ChessBase India, a leader in chess information, which will broadcast the key matches live, reaching tens of thousands of fans.

Sponsored by the Sardinia Region and organized by SSD Emmedi Sport together with UniChess, the festival also represents a significant initiative to enhance the local area. Orosei thus becomes the stage for an event that combines sport, tourism, and culture, helping to strengthen the island's image as a high-profile destination. "We are extremely proud," said tournament director Roberto Mogranzini, "because we are bringing the top players from Russia and Iran to Sardinia, along with players from other countries. Chess once again demonstrates that it unites, not divides." Tomorrow's opening day, Sunday, May 3, will begin with a press conference at 11:00 a.m. at the Club Hotel Marina Beach, an opportunity to officially present the content and objectives of the 2026 edition. More than a tournament, the Sardinia World Chess Festival confirms itself as a place of encounter and dialogue, where strategy and thought become a common language capable of transcending borders and differences.

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