Jeroen van den Berg announced his resignation as tournament director of the Tata Steel Chess tournament. Jeroen held the director’s post for 28 years since 1999.

Dutch Grandmaster Erwin l’Ami will succeed Berg. Erwin will become the director of Tata Steel Chess starting from the 2028 edition.

Jeroen described the importance of Tata Steel in his life. Berg noted that the 2027 tournament will be special for him.

Jeroen van den Berg

Jeroen van den Berg

Dutch chess organizer

“The Tata Steel Chess Tournament holds a special place in my life.

I look back with great pride and gratitude on the years in which I have had the privilege of contributing to the development of this wonderful event as tournament director.

The 2027 edition will be a very special farewell for me. At the same time, I have every confidence that, from 2028 onwards, Erwin will take the tournament forward with extensive knowledge, energy and a deep understanding of the chess world.

Over the coming year, we will work side by side to ensure a smooth transition.”

Van den Berg will remain involved in the organization after handing over the director’s post. He will be an adviser for a further three years after the 2027 tournament. Jeroen will step down permanently in January 2030.

Tata Steel Chess is one of the oldest elite chess tournaments still played to this day. Tata Steel has been held annually since 1938. The tournament features a traditional Classical time control.

Credit: ANP