Jerusalem chess tournament draws players from 23 countries amid boycott campaign against Israel

Going against the flow of those boycotting Israel, over 100 hopeful chess champions signed up in the first 24 hours to come to the Jerusalem International Open Chess Championship.

“Like the game of chess itself, Jerusalem is a city that has survived many wars and generations, yet still continues to captivate its visitors,” the tournament’s website heralds.

Contestants from 23 countries including the U.S., Germany, Russia, Belarus, Bulgaria, the Netherlands, Denmark, Angola, Azerbaijan and South Africa have already registered, according to YNet, suggesting that the players seem either unfazed by the political considerations of visiting Israel, or more committed to chess, or both. Many have already reached the highest rank in international chess.

The Jerusalem Open, organized by the Israeli Chess Federation together with Jerusalem’s Municipality and the Ministry of Culture and Sport, will take place between November 26-27 at the Ramada Hotel in Jerusalem for the second consecutive year.

The Israeli Chess Federation said the popularity of the Jerusalem Open reflects a renaissance for the game in Israel. There have been several other national and international competitions held in various locations around Israel, from Afula in the north to Eilat in the south.

Chairman of the Israeli Chess Federation, Dr. Zvika Barkai, said, “The Jerusalem Open is not only a competition – it is a symbol of Israel’s growing international stature in the chess world. The fact that players from 23 countries have committed months in advance proves the high level of the tournament and its growing reputation.”

The tournament will center around a speed version of the game called “Rapid Chess,” with limited time to make each move, resulting in a more fast-paced and entertaining sport to watch. Not only will the competition hold great appeal for spectators, but there are 30,000 euros at stake for contestants.

Miki Zohar, Israel’s Culture and Sports Minister, declared that the event was “proof of the power of culture and sports to bridge nations and strengthen Israel’s international standing.” Aware of the impact Israel’s war with Gaza and Iranian proxies is having on the world stage, Zohar said, “at such a challenging time, it is a source of pride that Israel can host a prestigious global sports event in its capital.”

Israeli Chess Federation CEO Gil Borochovsky added, “The success of the Jerusalem Open is the result of long-term investment, a clear vision and fruitful cooperation with the Ministry of Culture and Sport, the Jerusalem Municipality and other partners. This is a rare opportunity to bring chess players from around the world to Jerusalem – a city of history, culture and future. Chess is a bridge between worlds, and we intend to cross it in a big way.”

The Mayor of Jerusalem, Moshe Lion, also expressed enthusiasm for the event, and appreciation for those who have signed up to come: “Jerusalem, the city of Israel’s kings, will once again host the game of kings, which develops mental and social skills and provides challenge and growth. I welcome the players from Israel and abroad.”

Organizers of the Jerusalem Open Chess Championship are expecting some 400 male and female players from all over the world, and have made the competition open to the public.