2026 American Cup

The 2026 American Cup chess tournament returns to the Saint Louis Chess Club from March 2–13, bringing together the strongest chess players in the United States for a high-stakes double-elimination tournament with $400,000 in total prize money.

Played across classical and rapid time controls, the double-elimination format demands resilience and creativity at every stage, from opening round through the finals. Every match matters, and a single loss doesn’t mean elimination — making for some of the most dramatic chess played anywhere in the world.

Beginning on March 3, all rounds of the 2026 American Cup will be streamed with expert commentary from an accomplished broadcast team including GM Yasser Seirawan, GM Maurice Ashley and IM Nazí Paikidze. Fans can follow all of the action live on STLCC’s YouTube and Twitch.tv channels.

Spectators are invited to attend the 2026 American Cup, taking place March 3–12 at the beautifully renovated STLCC, with daily play beginning at 12:00 p.m. Spectator tickets will be sold and include access to the tournament hall and a dedicated viewing room with complimentary beverages and snacks.