French Chess Championship facts for kids

The French Chess Championship is a big yearly chess tournament held in France. It is where the best chess players in the country compete to find out who is the national champion! This important event officially started in 1923. It began after the Fédération Française des Echecs (which means French Chess Federation) was formed in 1921. This federation helps organize chess events and promotes the game across France.

How the Championship Started

Before the official championship began, there were earlier chess tournaments in France. The very first unofficial national tournament happened in 1880. It took place at a famous spot called the Café de la Régence in Paris. This café was well-known as a meeting place for chess players. More unofficial events were held there in 1881 and 1883.

These early games helped set the stage for the official championship. Later, in 1903 and 1914, there were tournaments called Championnat de France des amateurs. This name means "Championship of the chess enthusiasts." These events were important steps towards creating the official French Chess Championship we know today.