Master the Most Challenging Sicilian Systems with Grandmaster Precision
This is the first release in our new Open Sicilian for White series—an elite collaboration between GM Alexey Dreev, GM Baadur Jobava, and GM Pier Luigi Basso. In this groundbreaking course, we take on three of the most difficult systems White players face: the Sveshnikov, Kalashnikov, and Four Knights.
The Challenge Every 1.e4 Player Faces
The Sicilian Defence is the ultimate battleground for 1.e4 players. Many avoid it, choosing sidelines like the Rossolimo or closed systems. But true ambition means embracing the fight with 3.d4—the most principled and aggressive reply. The challenge? These main lines are complex and deeply theoretical. This course helps you navigate them with clarity and confidence.
Why These Three Systems Matter
The Sveshnikov: A Grandmaster's Favorite
From club events to World Championships, the Sveshnikov is a trusted weapon for Black. It demands precise calculation and deep understanding. Our recommendation—7.Nd5—offers you clean, direct plans that challenge Black from the very start.
The Kalashnikov: Sharp and Ambitious
With early central tension and rich tactical possibilities, the Kalashnikov is both modern and deadly. Our line with 6.N1c3 offers flexibility and avoids the most overloaded theory, giving you fresh, dynamic positions.
The Four Knights: The Silent Killer
One of the fastest-rising systems in recent years, the Four Knights balances solidity with danger. We recommend 6.Nxc6, a move that puts immediate pressure on Black’s setup and opens the door to strategic complexity.
What Makes This Course Revolutionary
High-Level Repertoire, Club-Level Clarity
The 13 theoretical chapters give you the depth you'd expect from a GM-level course, but with explanations that make sense even under time pressure. No more memorizing moves without understanding.
Flexible Learning Options
Whatever your time or skill level, this course adapts to your needs:
- Full Chapters – For players seeking complete coverage
- TO GO Versions – Fast-track prep with all must-know material
- 15 Minutes Repertoire – Basso’s fast-learning format to get you started quickly
- 4h 14min Video Series – Grandmasters explain plans and ideas directly
- Memory Booster – Strengthen retention with smart, targeted drills
Test Yourself with Interactive Challenges
Our 30 interactive test positions test your understanding, not just recall. These moments reflect real tournament decisions, helping you convert knowledge into practical strength.
Why 3.d4 Still Rules
3.d4 leads to the most critical, unbalanced positions in all of chess. Here’s why it remains the gold standard:
- Maximum Pressure – Force your opponent to prove every move
- Superior Prep Pays – Outplay even stronger players with sharper knowledge
- Psychological Edge – Most opponents expect avoidance, not aggression
- One System to Rule Them All – One approach covers the most common Sicilians
Chapter Breakdown
Chapters 1–6: Kalashnikov
- Chapter 1: Lowenthal and 5...a6
- Chapter 2: 7...Be6 and modern setups
- Chapter 3: Strategic 8...Nce7
- Chapter 4: Complicated 8...Nge7
- Chapter 5: Navigating 8...Nf6
- Chapter 6: Deep ideas and practical weapons
Chapters 6–7: Sveshnikov
- Chapter 6: Sharp 8...Ne7 lines
- Chapter 7: Strategic 8...Nb8 setups
Chapters 8–13: Four Knights
- Chapter 8: 8...Qa5+ and early sidelines
- Chapter 9: Refuting 9...f5
- Chapter 10: Calm play with 8...Bb7
- Chapter 11: 9...Rb8 and ninth move ideas
- Chapter 12: Modern main line 10...Ne3
- Chapter 13: Classical 10...Bb4+
Gain the Competitive Edge
Strong opening preparation is your biggest asset at any level. This course gives you:
- Instant Tournament Tools – Play these lines right away
- Strategic Insight – Understand structures and transitions
- Confidence – Stop fearing sharp Sicilians
- Time Efficiency – Everything in one place—no more scattered prep
Beyond the Opening
This course doesn’t stop at theory. It builds your overall game with:
- Pattern Recognition – Spot recurring ideas and motifs
- Decision-Making – Play the right plan at the right time
- Psychological Tools – Stay composed in high-risk positions
- Prep Tools – Efficient methods for last-minute preparation
This Is Just the Beginning
This course launches a full-scale repertoire project against the Sicilian. By mastering these three systems now, you lay the foundation for everything that follows.
Invest in your chess. Master the Open Sicilian. Start today.