FIDE has opened nominations for the Svetozar Gligorić Trophy 2026, an award that recognizes exemplary fair play and sportsmanship in chess. Candidates will be evaluated for actions or initiatives undertaken between September 2024 and September 2026, including displays of sportsmanship, promotion of fair play values, and support for integrity in the sport. Nominations must be submitted by September 10, with the award ceremony to take place during the Samarkand Olympiad.
FIDE is pleased to announce the call for nominations for the Svetozar Gligoric Trophy 2026.
The Svetozar Gligorić Trophy is an award given by FIDE to a person who demonstrates exemplary behavior promoting the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship in chess.
To be eligible for the Svetozar Gligorić Trophy 2026, candidates must demonstrate the following achievements during the period from September 2024 to September 2026:
- An exceptional display or act of sportsmanship during a sporting event.
- Outstanding contribution to popularizing the values and principles of fair play.
- Exceptional initiative in implementing integrity and high ethical values.
The Svetozar Gligorić Trophy recognizes players who adhere to the fundamental values of fair play during and after the game. It represents a mindset rather than just behavior, rooted in the following concepts:
- Fairness – It is not enough to enjoy victory; triumph must involve fairness and honesty.
- Respect – Written rules are mandatory. The unwritten rules of respect for everyone are equally mandatory.
- Friendship – Rivalry in sport does not exclude friendship.
- Team Spirit – Genuine consideration for teammates.
- Equality – Competing on equal terms is essential.
- Tolerance – The willingness and ability to accept what you may not agree with.
- Care – True champions care for one another.
Nomination Procedures
The winner of the Svetozar Gligorić Trophy is selected by the FIDE Gligorić Trophy Awards Commission.
Proposals for nominations (nomination letters) from Continental Federations, National Federations, and FIDE Commissions shall be submitted to the FIDE Gligorić Trophy Awards Commission at gligorictrophy@fide.com before September 10, 2026. Nominations of individuals, including self-nominations, are also permitted, but they must be transmitted through the federation with which the nominated person is affiliated.
Please note that this award relates only to the achievements of the nominated person during the period September 2024 – September 2026 and is not a recognition of lifetime career achievements.
The Commission’s decision is final and not subject to appeal. Commission members are not required to provide justification unless they wish to do so.
The award ceremony will be held during the 46th FIDE Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
