Szeged is a cozy city of 163,000 inhabitants situated in northern Hungary. It is mainly famous among the chess community from being birthplace of famous Hungarian player Geza Maroczy. Early May it hosted the 26th edition of annual Mitropa Cup - the friendly team tournament for Central European nations (a.o. France, Germany, Hungary, Czech Republic, Slovenia, Switzerland, Austria). The event was held separately for 10 men's teams in a four board round robin contest as well as for 10 women's doubles. The head organizer was Zsolt Korpics and the chief arbiter was respected WGM Zsuzsa Veroci.

The events drew 10 GMs and number of other titled players. The competition was extremely tough in both tournaments and the winners emerged in the last possible moments. France took the win in the men's competition ahead of disappointed Italy and Germany, last year's winners Hungary came barely 7th, even though they were top seeded having the home field advantage in pocket too.

In 4th edition of women's event Hungary managed to break all-time Slovenia's dominance to take their premier triumph ahead of the Slovenians and Slovakia. The top four teams finished within one game point making it closest Mitropa Cup competition ever. Germany, second in 2006, came one before last.

There was a surprise on the last day. The honorary guest was famous Hungarian athlete Katalin Kovacs, 21 times canoeing world champion. In 2008 the Mitropa Cup will arrive to Italy.

See official home page of the 2007 Mitropa Cup in Szeged

See detailed info & results from men's event from olimpbase.org
See detailed info & results from women's event from olimpbase.org

See olimpbase.org Mitropa Cup home page