Tournament director Jeroen van den Berg had one concern: the timely arrival of all 28 chess players. On the eve of Tata Steel Chess 2025, that concern has disappeared. Twenty-six players have arrived, the last two on their way.
Normally the tournament is festively opened on Friday at Tata’s headquarters, with guests and a snack. Due to the dire situation at main sponsor Tata, a more sober start was chosen. Tata Steel Chess 2025 will now be opened on Saturday with a bang of the gong by Tata CEO Van den Berg. Immediately after the trick, the first chess piece is moved.
In the De Moriaan village hall, the grandmasters play on digital boards that register and transmit every move. Amateurs do it with classic wood. Chess will be played at the highest level for two weeks. Spectators can enter for free, but must register in advance.