International Chess Celebration in the Heart of Europe
With a total prize fund of €30,000, the festival combines elite competition, youth events, education, and community spirit into one of the most ambitious chess projects in Central Europe.
A Strong International Field
The main Open Tournament is shaping up to be a highly competitive international event. The current registration list already includes more than 10 grandmasters and numerous titled players from Europe, Asia, North America, and beyond.
Among the top registered players so far are:
- GM Szymon Gumularz (Poland)
- GM Xu Xiangyu (China)
- GM Iniyan Pa (India)
- GM Dudin Gleb (Hungary)
- GM Isik Can (Turkey)
- GM Jan Šubelj (Slovenia)
The tournament is expected to attract players of all generations, from ambitious young talents to experienced international masters and grandmasters. Here are all the players currently registered – currently over 100
More Than Just a Tournament
The KCF Friendship Festival is designed as a complete chess experience.
In addition to the International Open Tournament, visitors can look forward to:
- The Albin Planinc Memorial Blitz Tournament
- An International Kids Tournament
- An International Chess Camp
- A Trainers Conference
- Special events featuring Garry Kasparov
One of the main goals of the festival is to bring together players, trainers, organizers, and chess enthusiasts from different countries in a friendly and inspiring atmosphere.
International Chess Camp
A major highlight of the KCF Friendship Festival 2026 will be the International Chess Camp, taking place from July 1–5 in Radenci, Slovenia. The camp is designed as an in-person training experience where ambitious young players and chess enthusiasts will have the opportunity to work closely with experienced international coaches in a motivating and friendly environment.
Leading the training program will be renowned grandmaster Adrian Mikhalchishin, one of the world’s most respected chess trainers and longtime coach of elite players and national teams. Together with other invited coaches, he will guide participants through interactive lectures, practical training sessions, game analysis, and intensive workshops focused on improving tournament performance and chess understanding.
One of the special highlights of the camp will be an organized visit to the 2026 Super Rapid & Blitz in Zagreb, giving participants a rare opportunity to experience world-class chess up close and see the elite players in action. Full information on that event is to be found here.
The organizers are also placing strong emphasis on creating a complete summer experience beyond the chessboard. In addition to training sessions, participants can enjoy numerous side activities including:
- Football and sports activities
- Music and entertainment evenings
- Social gatherings and team-building activities
- Outdoor activities and relaxation
- International cultural exchange with participants from many countries
The philosophy behind the camp is simple: combine serious chess improvement with friendship, inspiration, and unforgettable memories.
With high-level coaching, an international atmosphere, and a unique combination of chess and leisure activities, the KCF International Chess Camp aims to become one of the most attractive summer chess camps in Europe.
Chess in the Heart of Europe
Radenci, located in northeastern Slovenia, is well known for its thermal spa tradition, peaceful surroundings, and excellent playing conditions. The combination of professional organization, affordable accommodation, and a relaxing environment makes the festival especially attractive for families, clubs, and chess tourists.
The organizers expect hundreds of participants throughout the eleven-day festival.
Kasparov Chess Foundation Initiative
The festival is organized under the umbrella of the Kasparov Chess Foundation together with local partners and organizers from Slovenia. The project continues KCF’s mission of promoting chess education, international cooperation, and opportunities for young players worldwide.
The presence of Garry Kasparov, the 13th World Champion, gives the event additional prestige and international visibility.
Festival Information
Radenci, Slovenia
June 25 – July 5, 2026
€28,000 Prize Fund
Official website:
https://kcfworldfestival.org/
Registration list:
https://s2.chess-results.com/tnr1375699.aspx?lan=1&SNode=S0