Aruba has taken part in the sixth edition of the Intercontinental Chess Championship for Prisoners, known as ‘Chess for Freedom’ — an international online event that uses chess to promote personal development, discipline, strategic thinking and social inclusion for inmates.
The championship took place from October 13 to 15, 2026, with the results announced on October 17. Note: the event ran October 13-15; the news was reported October 17.
A year and a half in the making
The project followed a year and a half of work, organized by the Chess Federation of Aruba (FAA) in collaboration with the Correctional Institute of Aruba (KIA).
Aruba’s results
Aruba fielded 17 participants in three teams: the Youth Team with six participants placed fourth, the HVB Team (the remand and pre-trial unit) with five participants placed third, and the Strafafdeling Team (the convicted section) with six participants placed fourth.
What’s next
The Ministry of Justice and Sports confirmed it will continue collaborating with the Chess Federation of Aruba to provide equipment and resources so the program can expand.
