The f4-f5 attacking blueprint

Grand Prix Attack · Concept

Key Ideas
  • f4 stakes a claim on e5 and supports f5
  • f5 breaks Black's pawn structure
  • The kingside pawn storm is the main plan

The Grand Prix Attack aims for rapid development and a kingside attack. The f4-f5 thrust is the thematic break.

Critical Moves
  • 2.Nc3 — Flexible, allows f4
  • 3.f4 — The Grand Prix move
  • f5 — The key break
Common Mistakes
  • Playing f4 too early before Nf3/Be2
  • Allowing ...d5 without preparation