Norway Chess announced that from 2026, Norway Chess Open and Women will be held in Oslo, instead of Stavanger. Norway Chess published this information on its official website on January 12.

The first tournament in the new location will take place from May 25 to June 5, 2026, at the public library Deichman Bjørvika. Norway Chess announced Magnus Carlsen as the first confirmed player in the tournament.

Benedicte Westre Skog

Benedicte Westre Skog

Co-Owner of Norway Chess

“We see great opportunities in establishing Norway Chess in the nation’s capital. Oslo is an international meeting place and gives us a unique opportunity to reach an even wider audience, among spectators, partners, and new generations of chess enthusiasts.”

The Norway Chess project was launched in 2013 in the city of Stavanger. Norway Chess held 13 tournaments over 13 years in this city. Magnus Carlsen became the tournament champion 10 times, including splits for the Classical and Blitz sections.

Credit: Michal Walusza