New Delhi: Uzbekistan’s Javokhir Sindarov has secured his place in the World Chess Championship after winning the 2026 Candidates Tournament, setting up a highly anticipated title clash with India’s D Gukesh later this year.
The 20-year-old clinched the tournament with a round to spare following a draw against Anish Giri in the 13th round. Sindarov remained unbeaten throughout the competition, underlining his consistency and dominance against a strong field of contenders.
The upcoming championship match is expected to be one of the youngest-ever contests for the world title. Gukesh had already made history in 2024 by becoming the youngest world champion at just 18, surpassing the long-standing record of Garry Kasparov, who achieved the feat at the age of 22.
India’s R Praggnanandhaa was the only Indian participant in the Candidates tournament, having qualified through the 2025 FIDE Circuit. However, it was Sindarov who emerged as the standout performer.
Recent encounters between Sindarov and Gukesh hint at a closely fought battle ahead. In one of their latest games at a major tournament earlier this year, Gukesh created a winning opportunity with a bold queen sacrifice, but Sindarov defended resiliently to secure a draw after a long contest. Sindarov’s only classical win against Gukesh dates back to 2022.
The Uzbek grandmaster heads into the title match in formidable form, currently on an impressive unbeaten run in classical chess. In contrast, Gukesh has experienced a mixed start to the year, with a few below-par tournament finishes.
With both players representing a new generation of chess talent, the upcoming World Championship promises to mark a significant moment in the sport’s evolving landscape.
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