Judit Polgár, the world-renowned chess player and the only woman ever to reach the top 10 in the world rankings, is a prominent guest in Brussels this weekend. She is the guest of honor at the annual Chess & Mates Festival, an event that brings together chess enthusiasts from across Belgium and beyond for demonstrations, tournaments, and workshops. Her presence underscores the growing importance of chess culture in the Belgian capital.
What is happening
The "Queen of Chess," as she is affectionately known, is participating in various activities during the Chess & Mates Festival in Brussels. Her visit attracts both established chess players and newcomers eager to learn the intricacies of the game. In addition to her public appearances, Polgár recently garnered international attention by declining an offer from Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar to assume the Hungarian presidency. This decision highlights her priority for the chess world and her role as an advocate for the sport, above a political position.
Polgár's lasting impact on women's chess
Her pioneering role for women in chess, consistently competing on equal terms with male grandmasters, remains a constant source of inspiration. The festival in Brussels provides a platform for young female chess players to meet Polgár and be inspired by her achievements.
Background
Judit Polgár broke many barriers in the predominantly male chess world from a young age, following her sisters Zsuzsa and Zsófia in their chess careers. She earned the Grandmaster title at the age of fifteen, breaking Bobby Fischer's record. Her unwavering focus on playing against the best players, regardless of gender, has secured her a unique place in sports history. The Chess & Mates Festival, organized in collaboration with various Belgian chess clubs and the City of Brussels, aims to make the sport more accessible and foster talent, precisely in the spirit of Polgár's mission.
According to L'Echo on Saturday, September 5, 2026, Judit Polgár is the guest of honor at the Chess & Mates Festival in Brussels and has declined the Hungarian presidency.
What this means for Belgium
The presence of a chess icon like Judit Polgár in Belgium is a significant boost for the local chess community. The event, held in Brussels, can further ignite interest in chess among young people and adults in both Flanders and Wallonia. Belgian chess federations and schools can benefit from the increased attention to the sport, potentially leading to greater participation and the development of new Belgian chess talent. It is an opportunity for Belgium to further establish itself as a host country for international sporting events, focusing on intellectual sports such as chess. The Chess & Mates Festival strengthens cultural ties and places Brussels on the map as a center for international mind sports.
