The Satty Zhuldyz Chess Festival is one of the many side events of the World Championship match between Ian Nepomniachtchi and Ding Liren in Astana. Twelve players, among them former World Champion Vladimir Kramnik, were invited to play a rapid and blitz tournament. With a score of 3.5/4 Arjun Erigaisi had the best start in the strong and attractive field. | Photo: Vincent Keymer during the drawing of lots | Photos: Maria Emelianova and Damir Kuzhumov for Satty Shuldyz
Organized by the Bibisara Assaubayeva Foundation and the National Lottery of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Satty Zhuldyz (“Lucky Stars”) Rapid and Blitz Chess Tournament is set to take place on April 20-25. The likes of Vladimir Kramnik, Hou Yifan and Levon Aronian will be joined by a host of rising stars, including Bibisara Assaubayeva, Vincent Keymer and Arjun Erigaisi.