Commentary and Spectators Info
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admin
Date Published
Photo by Alexandra Wasti
Whether you're joining us in person or following from afar, there are many ways to experience the 2026 Canadian University Chess Championship.
The Championship will be held January 16th - 18th at Hart House, University of Toronto. The field consists of 23 universities, 280+ players, and 65 teams representing the largest Canadian University Chess Championship in history!
Live Games
Live electronic games will be available on lichess.org. A 15 minute delay is in-place for all DGT (electronic boards) in the tournament. 2 matches of the top Crown section and 1 match of the U1800 section games will be broadcast.
In addition to the live games, we intend to provide full-coverage of all Crown section boards. All played games will be posted throughout each playing day.
Commentary
We are pleased to confirm Commentary will be provided by FIDE Master Koosha Jaferian for the 2026 Canadian University Chess Championship. Recordings will be provided afterwards.
Commentary begins 30 minutes after the start of the round.
Special guests will include players for immediate game analysis and strong masters.
- Twitch live: https://m.twitch.tv/mrkooshachess/home
- Live Audience: An in-person very limited seating, live audience is planned to be permitted onsite for the tournament.
Daily Recaps
We will post daily recaps with the latest action with game analysis provided through our website cucc2026.ca. Our photographers will also provide top photos from the day for posting and showcasing.
Photography
We will have extensive photography for the rounds to provide a memorable experience and view of the games. Those photographs will be shared in our daily recaps and following the tournament in a photo album.
In-Person Spectating
We encourage all community members to come out to support the tournament. If you choose to do so, please note the following rules when games are in action:
- All electronics should be powered off and in bags.
- No photography unless prior to the start of the round.
- Provide players ample space
- Please follow the direction of any Arbiters in the playing hall.
- No spectators are allowed on the stage in the Great Hall.
With a title on the line and the strongest field yet, CUCC 2026 is set to be an unforgettable weekend of chess. Join us as the next champions are crowned!