The Mediterranean Chess Championship 2026 is starting tomorrow and FIDE Commission for Women’s Chess is proud to support it, helping to ensure that women competitors will receive the same prize fund as their counterparts in the Open Mediterranean Championship.
Through its financial support, the Commission has sponsored the increase in the Women’s Mediterranean Championship prize fund, making it equal to that of the Open Championship. As a result, the top three women will receive the same prizes as the top three players in the Open section – €3,000 for first place, €2,000 for second, and €1,000 for third.
As powerfully put in this article about the event – together with the organisers and promoters of this idea “we push boundries” of what open events can offer women chess players.
While equal prize funds cannot solve every challenge women face in chess, they send a powerful message: excellence deserves equal recognition. Fair financial rewards acknowledge the dedication, preparation, and competitive achievements of women players while encouraging greater participation and ambition for future generations.
Supporting initiatives like this is at the heart of the FIDE Commission for Women’s Chess’s mission. Around the world, the Commission works with organizers, federations, and local partners to create more opportunities for women and girls, promote visibility, and help build an environment where talented players can pursue their chess careers on equal footing. The Mediterranean Chess Championship (aka Montenegro Open) is a wonderful example of how collaboration can turn these values into meaningful action.
The Montenegro Open, taking place from 3–11 July in Budva, is one of the strongest international tournaments in the region. More than 280 players from 37 federations are expected to compete, including 122 titled players and 21 grandmasters. This year’s festival is also serves as the Mediterranean Chess Championship, alongside a B tournament, a blitz tournament, and the Mediterranean Youth Rapid Chess Championships, promising a vibrant week of chess for players of all ages and levels.
The FIDE Commission for Women’s Chess extends its sincere appreciation to the Montenegro Chess Federation, the Mediterranean Chess Association, and all partners and supporters whose vision and cooperation made this initiative possible. By working together to provide equal prize funds for the Mediterranean Championship, they have set a positive example of how organizers and the chess community can work hand in hand to promote greater equality in our sport.
We look forward to following the games in Budva and wish all participants an inspiring tournament filled with fighting chess, memorable moments, and new friendships. Good luck to every player competing for the Mediterranean titles!
