Fritz Trainer: Middlegames 5 Sicilian Rossolimo and Maroczy w/Sokolov

Understanding an opening doesn't stop at the theory — you need to master the ideas and structures that flow from it. In this Fritz Trainer course, GM Ivan Sokolov focuses on two of the most strategically rich Sicilian systems: the Rossolimo and the Maroczy Bind.

The Rossolimo (3.Bb5) has surged in popularity as a way to sidestep Open Sicilian theory like the Sveshnikov or Kalashnikov. Sokolov examines plans after 3...g6 and 3...e6, with a heavy focus on Magnus Carlsen's modern treatment of the opening. The Maroczy Bind gives White a space advantage, but Black has long had viable counterplay ideas — including those pioneered by Danish legend Bent Larsen. Sokolov highlights the key plans for both sides and exposes surprising strategic mistakes found even in top-level games.

• Video running time: 7 hours 20 minutes
• Instructor: GM Ivan Sokolov
• Format: Fritz Trainer Digital Download