India, Jan. 13 -- The chessboard is shrinking at least in terms of time. In a landmark move, the International Chess Federation (FIDE) has officially approved a resolution that allows shortened time controls to count toward Standard (Classical) ratings and Title Norms starting in 2026.

This shift marks one of the most significant structural changes to professional chess in decades, effectively bridging the gap between "Rapid" and "Classical" play.

Historically, "Standard" chess required hours of grueling concentration, often with time controls exceeding four hours per game. Under the new 2026 regulations:

* The New Floor: Tournaments with a time control of 45 minutes plus a 30-second increment (45+30) or 60 minutes plus a 30-second inc...