Variant WC registration

This guide explains how people sign up for the community-run Variant World Championships (VWCs), who checks the sign-ups, and how decisions are made.

Checking Registrations

When someone signs up, a group of moderators review the registration.

A smaller group, called the registration check team, makes sure that each player meets the rules. All moderators can see past decisions, which helps reduce mistakes and keeps things fair.

Moderators who are also players or organizers cannot decide on their own if someone is accepted or denied. This avoids bias.

Moderator Roles and Communication

After reviews are done, one moderator creates the final list of accepted players and shares it with the organizers.

Registrations often happen through websites like chessvariants.training (via Lichess login). Applicants can see updates and comments there. Some formats use shared moderator accounts (like @RacingKings or @Horde) just to handle sign-ups. Always check the team forum for details about how to sign up for each variant.

If you have questions about rules, scheduling, or how the tournament works, ask the organizers directly. The shared accounts may not answer all messages. If your sign-up is denied, you can appeal (see below).

Appeals

If your registration is denied, you can ask for an appeal. A Lichess moderator who was not involved in the original decision will review the case. Appeals only check if the rules and process were followed correctly.

Privacy

Organizers never see private registration details. They only receive the final list of accepted players. Rejected players stay anonymous.

A private way to register will always be available. Sometimes a public sign-up (like a forum post) is also allowed, but the private option will always exist too.

Questions