← All openings
Alapin Sicilian
Beginnerwhite repertoire·6 parts
The Alapin (1.e4 c5 2.c3). White supports a future d4 with the c3-pawn, builds a big centre, and sidesteps the Sicilian's heavy theory. A solid, easy system with a small edge — not a crusher.
…
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
a1
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
Start
Key Strategic Ideas
Before diving into specific lines, we look at the 6 core White ideas that make the Alapin work. The trick: when Black plays 1...c5 hoping to drag you into Najdorf or Dragon theory, you play 2.c3 instead — and the game becomes a position you already know how to play.