Following the successful inaugural edition in 2025, Big Rook Chess Academy (BRCA), in cooperation with the Thailand Chess Association (TCA), is pleased to announce the 2nd Bangkok Summer International Chess Open, scheduled to take place in Bangkok, Thailand, from 28 July to 2 August 2026.
The tournament will once again be hosted in Bangkok, one of Southeast Asia’s leading destinations, renowned for its rich cultural heritage, hospitality, and world-class facilities. Building on the success of last year’s event, the organizers are preparing for a significantly larger and stronger edition in 2026.
The tournament is organized under the leadership of International Arbiter Cholapat Chongstitwattana, with the support of the Thailand Chess Association. Interest from both domestic and international players has been exceptionally strong, reflecting the growing status of the event within the regional and international chess calendar.
As of the latest registration update, five Grandmasters have already confirmed their participation, led by GM Raunak Sadhwani (India, 2628). The current list of Grandmasters also includes GM Timur Gareyev (USA), GM Daniel Quizon (Philippines), GM Darwin Laylo (Philippines), and GM Vinh Bui (Vietnam).
The tournament has already attracted 46 registered players, including 14 titled participants, surpassing the number of titled players recorded in the inaugural edition. With registrations continuing to arrive from around the world, the field is expected to grow substantially in the weeks leading up to the event.
The first edition of the Bangkok Summer International Chess Open, held in 2025 at the Away Bangkok Riverside Kene Hotel, proved to be a remarkable success. In the Standard tournament, IM Michael Concio delivered an outstanding performance, scoring a perfect 9/9 to claim first place ahead of a competitive field of 66 players, including 13 titled participants.
The Rapid event concluded with GM Daniel Quizon and FM Jony Habla sharing first place, while Allan Pason secured third place. GM Quizon also captured the Blitz title, completing an impressive tournament campaign.
For the 2026 edition, the organizers are introducing an additional side event, the Duo Blitz (Team Blitz) competition, further enhancing the festival atmosphere and providing participants with additional competitive opportunities.
Thailand Chess Association President Mr. Sahapol Nakvanich welcomed the continued growth of the event, stating:
“I am very pleased to see this annual tournament organized by BRCA continue to grow each year. The increasing number of participants and international interest clearly demonstrate the rapid development and rising popularity of chess in Thailand.”
With a stronger field, broader international representation, and an expanded program of events, the 2nd Bangkok Summer International Chess Open is poised to become one of the leading annual chess festivals in Southeast Asia.
Players, officials, accompanying persons, and chess enthusiasts are warmly invited to participate in this exciting celebration of chess in the heart of Bangkok.