The Grenke Chess Festival is back. From April 2 to April 6, one of the most exciting events on the chess calendar returns, featuring both the Freestyle Tournament and the Grenke Open.

But this year, there's something new.

For the first time, fans can step inside the action with Fantasy Grenke.

🚀 What Is Fantasy Grenke?

It's simple.

Download FomoChess, build your team of 4 players, manage your budget, and compete against other users from around the world.

Every move matters. Every result counts.

Do you really understand chess… or do you just watch it?

This is your chance to prove it.

🌟 Elite Picks: Where the Tournament Is Won

Let's start from the top.

In the Elite category, one name stands above all: Magnus Carlsen.

After his unbelievable 9/9 performance last year, the question is simple:

Do you spend big and build around him… or take the risk and go elsewhere?

Around him, the field is stacked with world-class talent:

  • Hans Niemann
  • Nodirbek Abdusattorov, arguably in the best form of his career
  • Vincent Keymer, winner of the 2025 Weissenhaus Freestyle event
  • Levon Aronian, a two-time freestyle tournament winner

And the depth doesn't stop there:

  • Nihal Sarin, coming off a red-hot run online
  • Maxime Vachier-Lagrave
  • Parham Maghsoodloo
  • Vladimir Fedoseev
  • Awonder Liang, often underrated, always dangerous

This is where bold decisions are made.

🧠 Masters Category: Experience Meets Opportunity

The Masters category is full of players who can quietly carry your team.

Key names include:

  • Pavel Eljanov
  • Shamsiddin Vokhidov
  • Volodar Murzin, former Rapid World Champion

And then there are players you simply cannot ignore:

  • Baadur Jobava, unpredictable and creative
  • Maxime Lagarde
  • Jules Moussard

A special mention goes to the legend Artur Yusupov, a name that still carries weight.

🔥 Experts: Hidden Strength

The Experts category is where knowledge gives you an edge.

These players may be less known to casual fans, but they are extremely strong:

  • David Brodsky
  • Harry Grieve
  • Bilel Bellahcene

This category also features elite-level women players:

  • Mariya Muzychuk
  • Alexandra Kosteniuk, former World Champion
  • Stavroula Tsolakidou
  • Harika Dronavalli

If you pick right here, you gain a real advantage.

⚡ Challengers: Where Leagues Are Won

The Challengers category might look less flashy, but this is often where tournaments are decided.

Small picks. Big impact.

Some names to watch:

  • Alberto Barp
  • Igor Glek
  • Collin Colbow

And now, the surprise picks. Players who can win you everything.

  • Lu Miaoyi, inconsistent at times, but explosive when in form
  • Anna Shukhman, young, active online, and incredibly dangerous
  • Ilja Schneider, a rising talent with real upside

And finally, a name that needs no introduction:

  • Elisabeth Paehtz, consistently among the world's best

This is where smart managers separate themselves from the rest.

🎯 Final Thoughts

Fantasy Grenke is not just about picking the strongest players.

It's about balance. Timing. Instinct.

One bold choice can win you everything. One mistake can cost you the podium.

🚨 Build Your Team

The tournament is about to begin.

The stage is set. The players are ready.

Now it's your move.

Download FomoChess. Build your team. Beat everyone.

💭 Who are you trusting with your points?