Story thread · 2 reports / 1 sources

AICF confirms new dates for chess nationals after GM Abhijeet flags 2026 snub

timesofindia.indiatimes.com · 6dShare

The All India Chess Federation has rescheduled the senior National Chess Championship to November 29-December 9, 2026, in Varanasi, after GM Abhijeet Gupta objected to its proposed March 2027 dates. AICF held discussions with stakeholders to come up with a solution while retaining the venue. Gupta had cited school board exams and the risk of effectively losing the 2026 edition.

First report: After Arjuna Awardee calls out Indian chess calendar, AICF moves to find solution — timesofindia.indiatimes.com, 8d