US Chess Announcement about the 2026 Pan-Am Youth

What is this announcement?

The USA will not send an official delegation to the 2026 Pan-American Youth.

Why was this decision made?

The 2026 Pan-Am Youth Championships are scheduled for July 26 through August 2, 2026, in Medellín, Department of Antioquia, Colombia.

Currently, the nation of Colombia is under a Level 3 travel advisory from the U.S. Department of State, which is defined as “reconsider travel.” The advisory further states that there is a heightened risk of crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. US Chess cannot reasonably guarantee our players, parents, coaches, and staff safe passage and accommodation in that region of the world at this time. Therefore, the US Chess Executive Board has decided not to authorize a delegation to this event. 

US Chess sincerely apologizes to the players who will lose the opportunity to compete in this event. Certainly, they’ve done nothing wrong. However, the real world sometimes intrudes on our shared pastime. The safety of our members (particularly our youngest members) and staff is always our primary concern.

I still have questions. Where can I ask them?

Contact Brian Yang, FIDE Events Manager, at Click here to show email address.