New Delhi: Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa has made it clear that the traditional World Chess Championship will continue to hold the highest importance despite the introduction of the new Chess World Championship Tour. The upcoming tour, set to begin in pilot mode next year and become a full annual event from 2027, is designed to crown an overall champion across fast classical, rapid and blitz formats. However, Praggnanandhaa believes the classical World Championship will remain the ultimate benchmark in the sport.
Speaking on the sidelines of a chess event in Mumbai, the young star said that while he is still familiarising himself with the structure of the new tour, its format itself underlines the continued significance of the classical title. He pointed out that success in the new competition will still feed into the World Championship cycle, reinforcing its status as the main objective for elite players.
Praggnanandhaa welcomed the arrival of new tournaments, saying they create more opportunities for professional players to compete and earn a livelihood. With a growing number of strong players worldwide, he said additional events are essential to ensure broader participation. He noted that while many players are gravitating towards rapid and blitz formats, the expansion of the calendar is largely positive for the sport.
At the same time, he acknowledged that frequent changes in formats can be challenging. Adjusting preparation and mindset for different time controls is not always easy, but he believes exposure to varied competitions also helps players grow and adapt.
The Indian Grandmaster is currently preparing for the 2026 Candidates Tournament, having qualified by winning the FIDE Circuit in 2025. He said his approach to the Candidates will be similar to other major events, with equal emphasis on physical readiness, mental strength and focused preparation. Rather than thinking too far ahead, he plans to take the tournament one game at a time.
Reflecting on his journey, Praggnanandhaa said personal milestones and records matter less than performing well at the board. Returning to Mumbai, where he achieved a major breakthrough as a teenager, brought back positive memories and highlighted how far both his career and Indian chess have progressed.
He added that chess is witnessing a surge in popularity across India, with growing public interest in players and competitions. For Praggnanandhaa, this rising enthusiasm is one of the most encouraging signs for the future of the game.
