Saint Louis, Monday, April 2, 2020
The Grand Chess Tour (GCT) regretfully announces the cancellation of its 2020 season. The global pandemic known as COVID-19 is impacting our lives, and all sporting events around the world are being canceled or postponed.
"The Grand Chess Tour’s priority is the health and well-being of our participants, spectators, staff and partners," said GCT Executive Director Michael Khodarkovsky.
"The GCT board of directors reached this decision in collaboration with partners and sponsors based on recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO)."
"We would like to reassure players and the world chess community that all our sponsors and partners: Superbet Group and Superbet Foundation, Vivendi SA, Colliers International and the Saint Louis Chess Club have confirmed their commitment for the 2021 season," said legendary World Champion and GCT President Garry Kasparov. "The sixth season is now to be held in 2021, and fans around the world can expect an expanded tour."
The Saint Louis Chess Club will await further developments and recommendations from medical and civic authorities before determining the fate of the Saint Louis Rapid & Blitz, Sinquefield Cup and Champions Showdown: Chess9LX, currently scheduled for August 24 - September 14 collectively.
"The Saint Louis Chess Club hopes for the best global outcome possible," said Rex Sinquefield, founder of the Saint Louis Chess Club. "Our goal is to host these events as scheduled."
Details on dates and format for the Grand Chess Tour 2021 season will be announced in the coming months.
For more information please visit grandchesstour.org.
