What is the main idea behind the Rapport-Jobava System?

The main idea is to control the center early with 1. d4, 2. Nc3, and 3. Bf4, while maintaining flexibility and creating attacking chances.

How does the Rapport-Jobava System differ from the traditional London System?

Unlike the traditional London System, the Rapport-Jobava System uses an early Nc3, leading to more dynamic and less predictable positions.

What are the typical pawn structures in the Rapport-Jobava System?

Typical pawn structures involve pawns on d4 and e3, with potential for c4 or f4 to support central and kingside attacks.

Who are the notable players associated with the Rapport-Jobava System?

The system is named after Grandmasters Richard Rapport and Baadur Jobava, both known for their creative and unorthodox playing styles.

Is the Rapport-Jobava System the same as the Jobava London System?

Yes — they are two names for the same opening (1. d4 d5 2. Nc3 Nf6 3. Bf4). Baadur Jobava popularized the early Nc3 treatment of the London System, which became known as the Jobava London System; Richard Rapport later adopted the line, and the name Rapport-Jobava System also came into use.

Rapport Jobava System (1.d4 d5 2.Nc3 Nf6 3.Bf4 / 1.d4 d5 2.Nc3 e6 3.Bf4) Chess Puzzles

Most common moves: 1.d4 d5 2.Nc3 Nf6 3.Bf4 / 1.d4 d5 2.Nc3 e6 3.Bf4 / 1.d4 d5 2.Nc3 Nf6 3.Bf4 e6 / 1.d4 d5 2.Nc3 Nf6 3.Bf4 g6.

The Rapport-Jobava System is the same opening as the Jobava London System: a dynamic and aggressive setup for White, popularized by Grandmaster Baadur Jobava and later championed at the highest level by Richard Rapport. It is characterized by the early moves 1. d4, 2. Nc3, and 3. Bf4, aiming to control the center and create attacking opportunities while steering clear of the more predictable lines of the classical London System. The two names describe one system — Jobava's early-Nc3 treatment of the London, which became famous as the Rapport-Jobava System after Rapport adopted it.

To recognize the Rapport-Jobava System (Jobava London), look for the early development of the knight to c3 and the bishop to f4 alongside the d4 pawn, followed by flexible pawn structures. Use this system to surprise your opponents and create complex positions that lead to tactical opportunities and strategic advantages.

Win rate for White in rapid games, among players who reached this opening, by rating band.
Chess.com Elo	Rapport Jobava System	All White games	Italian Game	Bishop's Opening	Queens Gambit
750–1000	52.7%	50.3%	51.5%	51.0%	54.3%
1000–1250	51.6%	50.0%	51.1%	51.2%	54.3%
1250–1500	50.6%	49.8%	50.7%	50.8%	53.4%
1500–1750	49.5%	49.4%	50.1%	49.7%	52.2%
1750–2000	48.9%	48.7%	49.1%	48.1%	51.2%

See methodology

Variations of Rapport Jobava System

Rapport Jobava System Other Variations (20)

Combinations of Rapport Jobava System

Frequently Asked Questions: rapport jobava system

What is the main idea behind the Rapport-Jobava System?: The main idea is to control the center early with 1. d4, 2. Nc3, and 3. Bf4, while maintaining flexibility and creating attacking chances.
How does the Rapport-Jobava System differ from the traditional London System?: Unlike the traditional London System, the Rapport-Jobava System uses an early Nc3, leading to more dynamic and less predictable positions.
What are the typical pawn structures in the Rapport-Jobava System?: Typical pawn structures involve pawns on d4 and e3, with potential for c4 or f4 to support central and kingside attacks.
Who are the notable players associated with the Rapport-Jobava System?: The system is named after Grandmasters Richard Rapport and Baadur Jobava, both known for their creative and unorthodox playing styles.
Is the Rapport-Jobava System the same as the Jobava London System?: Yes — they are two names for the same opening (1. d4 d5 2. Nc3 Nf6 3. Bf4). Baadur Jobava popularized the early Nc3 treatment of the London System, which became known as the Jobava London System; Richard Rapport later adopted the line, and the name Rapport-Jobava System also came into use.