A major feature of the 2026 season is the introduction of the ACL Grand Prix Rapid Series — a structured, year-long competition designed to reward consistency, discipline, and regular competitive engagement.

How the Grand Prix works:

- Selected rapid tournaments across the year form part of the Grand Prix

• Players earn points based on final standings:

- 1st place earns 10 points - 2nd place earns 9 points - Points decrease by one per position down to 10th place earning 1 point

• Points accumulate across the season
• The ACL Grand Prix Champion is crowned at the end of the year

  Several Grand Prix events are also FIDE-rated, providing players with opportunities to gain international rating experience while competing locally.

  What's Included in the 2026 Calendar

  The published calendar features:

  - Monthly Grand Prix Rapid events

• The Young Minds Classic, our international flagship event, featuring schools from South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe
• The African Chess Lounge Festival, our season crown event combining rapid, blitz, and classical formats
• A structured year-end Recognition & Reset Day celebrating player and community achievements

  We strongly encourage parents and players to review the full calendar at:

  👉 https://africanchesslounge.org/events

  This structure ensures players have clear competitive pathways while allowing families to manage commitments with confidence.

  What Happens Next

  - Event-specific details and entry links will be shared closer to each tournament

• Grand Prix standings will be tracked and communicated throughout the year
• Coaches will use Grand Prix performance data to support player development and training decisions

  Thank you for your continued support of the African Chess Lounge. We look forward to a structured, competitive, and rewarding 2026 season.