The international chess spectacle "Liberland Open 2026" has successfully concluded in Apatin after nine exciting rounds played under the Swiss system, bringing together top chess players from 10 countries worldwide.
Organized by the Liberland Chess Federation, ARK
Organized by the Liberland Chess Federation, ARK Liberland Village in Apatin became the center of international chess. Players from Spain, Germany, Syria, Slovenia, Russia, Türkiye, Poland, the Czech Republic, China, and Serbia competed under the classical time control of 90 minutes per player with a 30-second increment per move.
After nine rounds, Li Yage of China deservedly claimed the championship title and gold medal with an impressive score of 8 points. The silver medal went to Spanish FIDE Master Carlos Salgado Allaria with 7 points, while Russian player Pavel Lagashin secured the bronze medal. Local player Branko Ćopić earned fourth place. Spain's Lunin Bohomolets Ilia finished fifth, while sixth place went to the exceptionally talented twelve-year-old Slovenian Edvard Kaloh.
In addition to the main prizes, awards were presented in several special categories:
● Best Female Player: Sugra Tepeli (Türkiye)
● Best Under-16 Player: Lin Zhengyuan (Serbia)
● Best Player Rated Under 1750: Milad Tuma (Germany)
● Best Senior Player (65+): Trivo Kuridža (Serbia)
Besides the main tournament, three exciting blitz tournaments were also held. Siniša Pezelj from Sombor won the first and third blitz events, while Dragomir Sokić from Kula triumphed in the second.
However, the third blitz tournament will be remembered as one of the most unique events in chess history. Immediately after the main tournament, the players boarded a riverboat and competed in a blitz tournament during a five-hour cruise on the Danube River. This extraordinary event offered participants the opportunity to play chess while enjoying the beautiful scenery along the Danube, combining competitive chess with an unforgettable tourist experience.
Liberland President Vít Jedlička expressed his enthusiasm after the final moves were played. In his statement to the media, he emphasized the flawless organization of the event and thanked all participants, organizers, and friends of the tournament.
"We are extremely proud of this year's outstanding participation and the fact that we welcomed players from several continents. I am especially pleased by the remarkable number of women participating in the tournament, which adds great value to our efforts to promote chess among all generations and categories. As for the blitz tournament on the riverboat, it was a historic moment and a spectacle rarely seen in the chess world. Five hours of sailing on the mighty Danube accompanied by the sound of chess clocks created an unforgettable image that reached audiences around the world. This success motivates us to make next year's event even better," said Vít Jedlička.
Tournament winner Li Yage of China also shared his impressions after lifting the championship trophy, praising both the hospitality and the high standard of organization.
"I am delighted to win first place in such a strong field. The tournament was extremely demanding, but I managed to stay focused until the very end and score 8 points. The organization was outstanding, and everyone made us feel truly welcome. I was especially impressed by the atmosphere at ARK Liberland Village and by the incredible idea of playing chess aboard a boat in the middle of the Danube. I will leave Apatin with wonderful memories and hope to return to defend my title," said the Chinese champion.
The "Liberland Open 2026" once again demonstrated that ARK Liberland Village is a unique venue for hosting international sporting events and that the Liberland Chess Federation continues to build one of the most recognizable international chess festivals in this part of Europe.