FIDE Candidates
Judit Polgar doubts Gukesh's world title defense as Ding Liren hints at comeback
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Chess legend Judit Polgar has questioned D Gukesh's ability to retain his World Chess Championship title later in 2026 amid the Indian prodigy's recent struggles, while defeated rival Ding Liren has hinted at a potential return after enjoying time away from elite competition.
Twenty-year-old Uzbek grandmaster Javokhir Sindarov dominated the 2026 FIDE Candidates Tournament in Cyprus, securing victory with a round to spare and earning a world championship match against reigning champion Gukesh Dommaraju. In the women's event, India's Vaishali Rameshbabu clinched the title on the final day despite starting as the lowest seed. The tournaments highlighted the rise of young talents from India and Uzbekistan.
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Every game in round two of the 2026 FIDE Candidates Tournament and Women's Candidates ended in a draw, leaving the standings unchanged. Dramatic escapes marked the women's section, with sacrifices saving Kateryna Lagno and Vaishali Rameshbabu from defeat. Leaders Fabiano Caruana, Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu, and Javokhir Sindarov hold their positions ahead of Tuesday's round three.
The pairings for the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026 and the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament 2026 were determined at a drawing of lots ceremony in Paphos, Cyprus. Both events, set for 28 March to 16 April 2026 at the Cap St George’s Hotel & Resort, will select challengers for the world chess championships. The schedule features double round-robin formats with eight players each.
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Chinese grandmaster Wei Yi has expressed doubt about his prospects in the upcoming FIDE Candidates 2026, ranking himself in the third tier while placing India's R Praggnanandhaa higher. In an interview, Yi highlighted the importance of experience and praised Praggnanandhaa's all-around skills. The tournament in Cyprus will determine the challenger to world champion D Gukesh.