The Prague International Chess Festival 2026 prominently featured the popular Hand & Brain format right after its main event. This exciting segment brought together a diverse mix of Grandmasters, Challengers, Futures players, celebrities, and sponsors, forming mixed teams for four entertaining rounds. A particularly memorable encounter was the match between Divya Deshmukh & Christina Jordan (playing as White) and Bao Anh Angelina Nguyen Doan & Benjamin Gledura (playing as Black). What initially appeared to be a firm advantage for White soon saw a dramatic shift in momentum, leading to a commanding position for Black. The game culminated in a spectacular finish, with Gledura unearthing a brilliant tactical idea that had gone unnoticed by everyone present—even his own partner.
By Connor Westbrook
Connor Westbrook brings his dynamic energy to Liverpool's sports scene, where he's been making waves in sports journalism for the past eight years. With a background in semi-professional football, he offers unique insights into the tactical aspects of the game.