Join us for the Leinster Junior Chess Championships, a unique and historical event in the Irish Junior Chess calendar.

Throughout the years, the Leinster Junior Chess Championships has fostered talent and sportsmanship, attracting players from various backgrounds and skill levels. With a supportive atmosphere and opportunities to learn from each match, this event is perfect for aspiring chess players.

The 2026 Championships comprise 10 separate competitions from U8 up to U19 designed with to cater from the widest range of players.

The U8 Championships and U10 and U12 Fun Rapids are aimed at Primary School age players new to tournament chess who want a one-day event with short time controls.

Players will have the chance to participate in more than one event, as long as they don’t overlap, allowing for up to 12 ICU rated games - ideal for players looking to play their first rated games. For example, an U12 player could play in BOTH the U14 and U12 championships OR BOTH the U12 championships and the U12 Fun Rapid.

Note also the new format for the U19 Championships.... 7 round FIDE rated over 4 days 90+30 for juniors of all ages preferring truly classic time control of 120 rather than 60.

For specific details and to enter, please visit the following links:

• Leinster Junior U19 Championships 2026 - A 7-round 90+30 FIDE rated event over 4-days 1-4 Jan
• Leinster Junior Championships U16, U12, U10 2026 - 6-round 30+30 ICU rated events over 2 days 1-2 Jan
• Leinster Junior U14, U11, U9 Championships 2026 - 6-round 30+30 ICU rated events over 2 days 3-4 Jan
• Leinster Junior Under 8 Championships 2026 AND U10 & U12 Fun Rapid - 6-round unrated U8 Championships and U10 and U12 Fun Rapid

Please also note:

1. Online entries open until the day before that particular event.
2. 5 euro surcharge for entries after December 28th.
3. Entrants must be ICU members: https://www.icu.ie/shop to join or resubscribe
4. All events ICU rated except U8 and Fun Rapid sections.
5. Eligibility: Must be under the age on 1/1/2024 eg 11 or younger on January 1st to play in Under 12s.
6. Eligibility: All welcome, though title winners must be resident in Leinster.
7. Transport: Ample Free Parking and serviced by many bus routes: 46a, 145, 155 etc.
8. Photos may appear from the event on the websites of the LSCA and/or ICU.

Whether you are a seasoned player or new to the game, the Leinster Junior Chess Championships welcomes you. This is your chance to be part of a dynamic event filled with learning, competition, and camaraderie. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to develop your playing skills, meet and make new friends in chess, and create lasting memories.

We look forward to seeing you at the Championships and wish you the best of luck in your games!