Indian players dominated the Muscat Nights International Chess Championship 2026, securing victories across major categories as the 10-day tournament wrapped up at Al Amal Club Hall in Muscat on Friday. The event featured 270 competitors from 36 countries, marking one of its strongest editions. Omani players also earned accolades for their performances.
The Muscat Nights International Chess Championship 2026 concluded with a strong showing from India, as players claimed first place in key sections including the Open Over 2000 rating category and the Under 2000 division.
In the Open Over 2000 section, Grandmaster Leon Luke Mendonca of India took first place with 6.5 points, followed closely by compatriot Pranesh M in second. Bulgaria's Grandmaster Arkadij Naiditsch finished third, while other notable results included Russia's GM Mikhail Mozharov in fourth, India's IM Mayank Chakraborty in fifth, Egypt's GM Ahmed Adly in sixth, Kazakhstan's GM Alisher Suleymenov in seventh, and Turkey's IM Umut Ata Akbas in eighth.
India's Raghav Srivathsav won the Under 2000 title outright with 8 points. UAE's Humaidan Al Zaabi placed second with 7.5 points, tied with Syria's Laith Malham in third. Omani player Salim Al Mashikhi secured seventh place.
The Blitz Championship, played over 11 rounds with a 3-minute plus 2-second increment time control, was won by India's IM Mayank Chakraborty. Egypt's GM Adham Fawzy came second, India's GM Pranesh M third, and Iran's Radin Yadegar fourth.
Omani competitors received special recognition. Mohammed Al Mashikhi was named the Best Omani Player in the Over 2000 category, with Salem Al Amri as second-best. In the Under 2000 division, Mohammed Al Riyami took top Omani honors, and Ana Al Esayi was awarded Best Omani Female Player. Young talents like Anas Al Lamki (U10), Ilyas Al Hinai (U12), Said Al Riyami (U14), and Shihab Al Shibli (U16) impressed, while Ali Al Habsi received the encouragement award.
Ahmed Al Balushi, Chairman of the Oman Chess Committee, described the tournament as a 'major success,' noting the increased participation from countries, titled players, and elevated competitive standards. He announced plans for additional regional and international events to bolster Oman's role as an emerging chess hub.
