Sicilian: Grand Prix, 2...e6 3.Nf3
Sicilian: Grand Prix, 2...e6 3.Nf3
Definition
The Grand Prix Attack is an aggressive anti-Sicilian system in which White quickly pursues kingside pressure with the pawn move f4, often aiming for a rapid attack on Black’s e- and f-files and the c2–g8 diagonal. The tabiya usually arises after 1.e4 c5 2.Nc3 when White keeps the option of f4 in reserve. The suffix “2...e6 3.Nf3” identifies the sub-variation in which Black replies 2…e6 (temporarily controlling d5 and preparing …d5 or …Nc6) and White chooses 3.Nf3, delaying f2–f4 until it can be played under more favorable circumstances.
Typical Move Order
The most common sequence is:
- 1. e4 c5
- 2. Nc3 e6
- 3. Nf3 Nc6 (or 3…d5)
- 4. Bb5 (or 4.d4, 4.f4, 4.g3, etc.)
By inserting 3.Nf3 White keeps Black guessing: at any moment he may transpose to an Open Sicilian with d2–d4 or to the orthodox Grand Prix with f2–f4. This flexibility is the trademark of the 3.Nf3 line.
Strategic Aims & Typical Plans
- White
- Maintain the option of a central pawn break with d4 or a kingside pawn storm with f4, choosing according to Black’s set-up.
- Develop smoothly (Bc4, d3, 0-0, Qe1–h4) and seek tactical motifs on f7.
- After 3…Nc6 4.Bb5, provoke doubled c-pawns and seize dark-square control.
- Black
- Challenge the center with …d5, often immediately (3…d5) or after developing …Nc6 …d6.
- Adopt Scheveningen-style set-ups (…d6 …a6 …Qc7 …Nf6) that blunt f2–f4 ideas.
- Exploit White’s delayed development on the queenside by expanding with …b5.
Historical Context
The Grand Prix gained popularity in the 1980s and 1990s on the British weekend “Grand Prix” circuit, hence the name. Strong English GMs such as John Nunn, Julian Hodgson, and Joe Gallagher used it to score quick wins against Sicilian specialists. The 3.Nf3 sub-line emerged as a refinement when defenders learned reliable antidotes to 2.f4; by withholding the pawn thrust, White kept more pieces on the board and avoided certain forced endgames.
Illustrative Miniature
An attacking gem demonstrating the latent power of the f-pawn break even when delayed:
After 17.Qxd6 White emerged a pawn up with Black’s king stuck in the center—classic Grand Prix themes of piece play on the dark squares and a belated yet decisive f-file assault.
Modern Practice
The line remains a practical weapon in rapid and blitz because it avoids heavy theory while retaining venom. Players like Baadur Jobava and Aleksandr Lenderman have produced fresh ideas with early g3, Bf1–g2, echoing King’s Indian structures.
Interesting Facts
- Because the move order is so flexible, databases categorize the variation under several ECO codes (B23, B24, B26), depending on whether White later plays d4 or f4.
- Top Grandmasters sometimes choose 3.Nf3 as a surprise weapon to avoid the Najdorf, Taimanov and Kan main lines—all sidestepped in a single move.
- The first known game with this exact move order was Velimirović–Eley, London 1976, where White scored a swift 23-move victory.