Chess Base

• Early surprises mark opening rounds of Agzamov Memorial in Uzbekistan

  The 19th Agzamov Memorial is under way in Tashkent, attracting over 300 players across two rating sections. Strong grandmasters such as Haik Martirosyan, Pouya Idani and S.L. Narayanan have begun with perfect scores, but early rounds have also produced notable upsets, with lower-seeded players joining the lead group. Held in honour of Uzbekistan's first grandmaster, the tournament continues a long-standing tradition. | Pictured: Ukrainian GM Vitaliy Bernadskiy | Photo: Uzbek Chess Federation

• Laszlo Nagy and the 35-year legacy of 'First Saturday'

  In the world of chess, some move the pieces on the board and some build the stage upon which legends are born. Laszlo Nagy, a.k.a. 'Mr. First Saturday', is a name synonymous with the vibrant chess culture of Budapest. For over three decades, he has provided a launchpad for the world's most promising talents to achieve their dreams. Laszlo is the organiser of the First Saturday chess tournament in Hungary's capital, which has been running for 35 years now.

• Starting next week: Organisers confirm full field for Reykjavík Open

  The Reykjavík Open returns from 25 to 31 March at the Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre, once again bringing together a large international field for its traditional nine-round Swiss competition. Led by top seed Bogdan-Daniel Deac and featuring a mix of experienced contenders - such as Vasyl Ivanchuk - and young stars, the fully subscribed event continues a tradition that dates back to Mikhail Tal's victory in the inaugural 1964 edition. A varied festival programme will accompany the main tournament. | Photo: Official website