For the first time in history, the chess community has helped decide which city should be the chess capital for the following year. After more than 4,000 people cast their votes, Berlin emerged as the 2022 host for the Grand Prix Series and other events. Among the voters were the organizers and federations involved in the event and chess players.

Berlin seems to be the perfect city for the Grand Prix, part of the World Chess Championship cycle. The city already hosted two World Chess Championships in 1910. More recently, Berlin also served as the stage for the 2015 World Rapid & Blitz Championship and the 2018 Candidates Tournament.

“FIDE continues to support and bring top-level chess to the world’s cities,” said FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich. “Chess in Berlin is a part of the culture, and we are thrilled that the city and the whole of Europe will have an opportunity not only to follow the games online but also the see them live, even in these challenging times.”

Three events will comprise the 2022 Grand Prix, set to happen between February and April of next year. Each event of the Grand Prix will consist of a round-robin group stage followed by a knockout stage. The total prize fund for the Grand Prix is €350,000, with €150,000 for each event.

What players are you hoping to see playing in the new chess capital, Berlin? Leave a comment below!