Event Details

Oct 26, 2026 - Oct 30, 2026

12:00 pm CDT

Saint Louis Chess Club, 4663 Maryland Avenue, Saint Louis, MO 63108

Clutch Chess: Champions Showdown 2026 features Grandmasters Fabiano Caruana, Hikaru Nakamura, Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu and Javokhir Sindarov for three days of fighting chess, October 27–29, 2026.

Clutch Chess is a unique type of chess tournament format, the brainchild of Grandmaster Maurice Ashley where the stakes build round by round with ever-increasing points and dollar prizes available each day. Unlike traditional chess tournaments, in Clutch Chess no lead is ever safe and every single game has meaning. Since point values for wins increase each day, players who start off slowly can stage dramatic comebacks all the way to the very end.

On Day 1, each win is worth 1 point and $1,000. For Day 2, each win is worth 2 points and $2,000. On Day 3, each win is worth 3 points and $3,000.

Each game is played at a rapid time control of 10 minutes plus a 5-second increment. The prize from each drawn game will roll over into a Champion’s Jackpot, which only the winner of the tournament will receive. In case of a tie for first, there will be a playoff to determine the winner.

Whether it’s a match or a tournament, the Clutch Chess format guarantees that each and every game has meaning all the way to the finish line.

Tickets & spectator access

Watch the competition in person October 27–29, 2026, beginning at noon CDT each day. Playing-hall access is standing room only, and capacity is limited.

  • Tournament admission: $50 per day or $150 for all three days. Includes playing-hall access and light refreshments.
  • VIP admission: $100 per day or $275 for all three days. Includes playing-hall access, a guaranteed place at the Monday, October 26 autograph session, and an exclusive photo opportunity.
  • Autograph session only: $100. Monday, October 26, 4–5 p.m. CDT. Includes a guaranteed place at the autograph session, an exclusive photo opportunity and light refreshments.

For ticket availability and purchase inquiries, contact [email protected] or 314-361-2437.

Watch the action

Follow the Saint Louis Chess Club on YouTube and Twitch for chess broadcasts and analysis.

Visit the Saint Louis Chess Club

Competition play begins at noon CDT October 27–29. Ticket holders should check in at the Saint Louis Chess Club front desk, 4663 Maryland Avenue, Saint Louis, MO 63108.

Plan your visit for directions, parking and nearby accommodations.

Regulations & Schedule of Events
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