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Total Chess Chief Defends Fast Classical Format Ahead of Budapest Pilot
✍️ Times of India
🗓 09 Nov 2026, 09:08 AM
👁 11
Total Chess chief Kjell Madland defended the tournament’s fast classical group stage, saying all 24 players will compete across blitz, fast classical and knockout formats, aiming to modernise chess and attract a wider audience.
The pilot edition of Total Chess, set to take place in Budapest, has sparked debate over its format. Chief Kjell Madland has defended the decision to use a fast classical group stage after an opening nine‑round blitz tournament.
Madland explained that the 24 participants will play across all three formats – blitz, fast classical and knockout – with the group stage determining the four semi‑finalists. "We want to modernise chess and attract a wider audience," he said.
The fast classical stage is designed to keep the competition brisk while still testing players’ strategic depth. The knockout rounds will feature all three formats, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of skill.
Madland’s stance comes as the tournament seeks to showcase a new, dynamic approach to competitive chess, blending speed and tradition in a single event.
Madland explained that the 24 participants will play across all three formats – blitz, fast classical and knockout – with the group stage determining the four semi‑finalists. "We want to modernise chess and attract a wider audience," he said.
The fast classical stage is designed to keep the competition brisk while still testing players’ strategic depth. The knockout rounds will feature all three formats, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of skill.
Madland’s stance comes as the tournament seeks to showcase a new, dynamic approach to competitive chess, blending speed and tradition in a single event.