Sipke Ernst: The Modern Benko Gambit | A Complete Repertoire for Black
In modern chess, activity has become one of the most prized resources of all. Engines have taught us again and again that active piece play, the initiative, and dynamic pressure can more than compensate for small material or structural concessions. The Benko Gambit fits this philosophy perfectly. By giving up a pawn early, Black immediately gets exactly what the modern player is looking for: open lines, harmonious development, and relentless, long-term pressure on White's queenside. Click Here to Buy!
The Benko Gambit
It's a genuine fighting opening, ideal for players who don't want to drift into the quiet, slow-maneuvering waters that 1.d4 so often leads to, but instead prefer to seize the initiative and steer the game into sharp, dynamic, and double-edged territory.
About the Course
In this course, GM Sipke Ernst (a long-time Benko player himself) presents a complete, up-to-date repertoire built around a fresh interpretation of the opening. Instead of the traditional 5...g6, the modern main line runs 5.bxa6 e6, giving Black compensation of a completely different, more positional character. tackles every important try, from White's critical 5.e3 setups to the anti-Benko move orders with 2.Nf3, and doesn't shy away from the sharpest, most theoretical battles - while always keeping the focus on the ideas, plans and recurring structures that make these positions so pleasant to play.
The result is a practical, ambitious and confidence-building repertoire you can rely on in your own tournaments. Whether you're a lifelong Benko player or looking for a dynamic new answer to 1.d4, this course gives you everything you need to play the gambit with confidence.
With interactive exercises
Drill this opening repertoire
Play out key positions against Fritz
Even more possibilities: Start FritzTrainer in the ChessBase program!
The database with all games and analyses can be opened directly. Games can be easily added to the opening reference. Direct evaluation with game reference; games can be replayed on the analysis board. Your own variations are saved and can be added to your own repertoire. Replay training. LiveBook active. All engines installed in ChessBase can be started for the analysis. Assisted Analysis. Print notation and diagrams (for worksheets)
Sample Videos
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System Requirements
App for Windows: Windows PC, Windows 10 or 11, and Internet
App for Mac: Mac OS X and internet
ChessBase books: Computer (iPad, Tablet, PC etc.), current browser, internet
ChessBase video stream: Computer (iPad, Tablet, PC etc.), current browser, internet