FIDE acknowledged significant lodging problems on the opening day of the 2026 Chess Olympiad, saying some national teams were left without proper rooms and had to book accommodation in the city at their own expense.
Support and Compensation for Affected Teams
While hotel arrangements are the responsibility of the local organizing committee and fall outside FIDE’s direct authority, the federation said it would step in to support those affected. FIDE has secured extra funds to reimburse teams that arranged their own lodging, covering accommodation of an appropriate standard for up to three days.
The federation also plans additional compensation for teams accommodated in official hotels that fail to meet FIDE-approved standards during the event. This proactive approach aims to address the concerns of participating nations and ensure their comfort during the prestigious tournament.
FIDE expressed regret over the disruption and apologized to the teams and federations involved. It emphasized that, despite the issues originating at the organizing committee level, its priority is to ensure no federation bears financial losses because of the situation. The federation is committed to maintaining the integrity of the Olympiad and ensuring a level playing field for all competitors.
According to the federation, the overriding goal remains unchanged: every participating team should be treated fairly and receive the conditions promised for the Olympiad. This commitment not only highlights FIDE’s dedication to the event but also reassures teams that their concerns will be addressed diligently.
In conclusion, FIDE’s response to the lodging issues at the 2026 Chess Olympiad illustrates its commitment to the welfare of the teams. The federation’s swift action in providing financial support and compensation reflects its understanding of the importance of a well-organized event. Moving forward, FIDE aims to build a stronger relationship with the local organizing committee to prevent similar issues in future tournaments.