SC Viernheim and OSG Baden-Baden lead Chess Bundesliga opening

The 2026/27 German Chess Bundesliga has commenced, with defending champions SC Viernheim and OSG Baden-Baden emerging as the early leaders. Both teams secured victories in all three matches of the opening weekend, earning 6 match points each. SC Viernheim currently holds the top position in the standings due to a higher board-point total.

OSG Baden-Baden has strengthened its roster following the withdrawal of Schachfreunde Deizisau, adding German top player Matthias Blübaum and Dmitrij Kollars. Blübaum has contributed 1.5 points through two rounds. FC Bayern München follows in third place with 5 match points.

The new season format features 16 teams competing over eight boards, utilizing a revised schedule of five three-round weekends. The competition is set to conclude with final rounds held in Neuwied.