Reykjavik Open, Olafsson Memorial

by Frederic Friedel
10/27/2026 – Founded in 1964, the Reykjavik Open transformed from a biennial closed to an annual Swiss-system open tournament. It attracts hundreds of players each year, ranging from casual enthusiasts and rising talents to elite international. The Reykjavik Open 2027 will take place from March 17th to 23rd, in the stunning Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre in Reykjavík. But before then, from November 24th-29th, you can take part in the Friðrik Ólafsson Memorial 2026.
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The Reykjavik Open 2027 will take place from March 17th to 23rd in the stunning Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre in Reykjavík.

Growing Year After Year

The Reykjavik Open continues to attract chess players and enthusiasts from every corner of the globe. The tournament has grown steadily in recent years, with players of all ages and playing strengths travelling to Iceland to take part in one of the most unique international chess events on the calendar.

In 2026, the tournament welcomed a record 422 players from 51 countries including 32 grandmasters in the popular nine-round Swiss event, and we look forward to another fantastic turnout in 2027!

What to Expect in 2027

  • Dates: March 17–23, 2027
  • Venue: Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre, Reykjavík
  • Format: 9-round Swiss
  • Streamers
  • Pub Quiz
  • Golden Circle Tour
  • Blitz Tournament

Hotel Deals will be avilable in Center Hotel (25% discount).

Registration Is Now Open!

Secure your spot early! With the Reykjavik Open continuing to grow in popularity, we once again expect a strong international field and a great turnout in Harpa. Registration link.

The Friðrik Ólafsson Memorial 2026 is an exclusive classical chess tournament, organized by the Icelandic Chess Federation and the Reykjavík Chess Club. The organisator writes:

"Dear past Reykjavík Open participant, while you wait, we invite you to return to Iceland in November for the Friðrik Ólafsson Memorial 2026 – a special tournament organised in honour of Iceland’s first grandmaster and former FIDE President."

Tournament details

  • 9-round Swiss system
  • Played over 6 days (24–29 November 2026)
  • Venue: Reykjavík Chess Club, Faxafen 12, 108 Reykjavik
  • Open to players with a FIDE rating of 2000 or higher (current or 2026)

Links

It can become an unforgettable chess adventure in Iceland, especially if you use the oportunity to explore the unique island, as we did almost a decade ago.

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