Chess.com Prize Events: Rule Violations & Penalty Guidelines

Introduction

This guide provides the chess community with a clear framework for addressing rules violations that occur before, during, and after events with prizes. We believe that publishing this process provides important transparency for players and the community, helping promote a level playing field for all participants so that they can compete with confidence. Our goal is to serve the chess community by protecting the integrity of the game and upholding the highest standard when it comes to events with prizes.

Penalization Philosophy

In competitive sports, rules and penalties play a central role in promoting fairness amongst competitors. Chess is no different. When it comes to our events, players who violate the rules may be penalized in a variety of ways. The most important part of any rules enforcement framework is that rules and penalties are applied fairly and with consistency.

Violations and penalties will be documented in writing and depending on the violation may range from warnings to an indefinite suspension from events with prizes. The severity of each penalty will depend on the specifics of the violation, and subsequent violations may result in higher penalties. Players will be informed of the specific reason(s) for their penalization and have the right to appeal and request a review of their penalties. For violations that result in disqualification, suspension, and/or player appeal, the case will be reviewed by a committee that includes events staff and at least two arbiters or titled players—one internal to Chess.com and one external, independent player. The player who appealed will receive a written response within one week.

Violation Categories

Rules Violations in Chess.com events are divided into three main categories: Personal Conduct, Fair Play, and Event Regulations.

Personal Conduct

Violations that directly violate a player’s ethical responsibility to their colleagues or the greater chess community. These rules help ensure competitors are not disrespectful to fellow competitors, Chess.com staff, and tournament administrators.

Fair Play 

Violations that include actions that compromise the integrity of the game and breach Fair Play policy. These violations include cheating, gambling, manipulating ratings, collusion, match-fixing, and other forms of abuse.

Event Regulations

These regulations promote the smooth operation of events, and aim to avoid unfair disruptions by players. This includes, but is not limited to, breaking official Chess.com event rules, arriving late or not showing up to a match without a valid reason, and attempting to gain an unfair advantage.

Definitions of Penalties 

Warning: A formal email notification issued to the player,  documenting the violation and informing the player about which rule was broken

Time Reduction: A penalty where a player's game clock is reduced as a consequence of a violation.

Prize Reduction: A penalty where prizes (money, awards, etc) are reduced due to a violation.

Game Forfeiture: The automatic loss of a game, either current or previous, due to a significant violation. This penalty results in the immediate forfeiture of the game in question.

Disqualification: A ruling whereby a player is deemed ineligible to compete in the current event, resulting in their disqualification from that event.

Event Suspension: A temporary or permanent ban from participating in events with prizes. Suspensions can apply to the current event and/or future events. For the most egregious violations, suspensions from events with prizes may extend indefinitely.

Conclusion

We are committed to ensuring that every move, every game, and every interaction on our platform is conducted with integrity and the utmost respect for the community. We will continually strive to uphold these values, ensuring that Chess.com remains a place where everyone can enjoy the game in a fair and enjoyable environment.

Thank you for being a part of our community and for upholding the spirit of chess. Your dedication and commitment make Chess.com a vibrant, respectful, and amazing place for all players to compete. We look forward to continuing this journey with you, united in our love for the game and our shared commitment to excellence.

Violation List

Note that these are just violations specific to events with prizes. All players must read and follow the User Agreement (and all policies within), as well as the Official Event Rules. Violations of any of these policies may result in penalties.