Excitement Unfolds at the 2026 FIDE Candidates and Women’s Candidates Tournaments in Cyprus
Chess Titans Clash in Cyprus: 2026 FIDE Candidates and Women’s Candidates Tournaments Kick Off
Nicosia, Cyprus — The stage is set, and the pieces are in motion as the most anticipated chess tournament of the year commenced on Sunday. Sixteen of the world’s elite chess players have gathered in Cyprus for the 2026 FIDE Candidates and Women’s Candidates tournaments, where the stakes are high: the winners will earn the right to challenge the reigning World Champion and Women’s World Champion.
Both tournaments feature an eight-player double Round Robin format, comprising a total of 14 games. While an early setback can be daunting, players are well aware that the tournament is a marathon, not a sprint. Initial predictions suggested a cautious approach, especially during intra-country matchups, which could lead to friendly draws among competitors from the same nation. However, the opening round defied expectations.
In the Open section, three out of four games ended decisively, showcasing a fierce competitive spirit. Meanwhile, the Women’s section, despite concluding with four draws, was marked by intense battles and unexpected opening strategies.
Caruana Triumphs Over Nakamura
One of the most thrilling encounters of the day featured American grandmasters Fabiano Caruana and Hikaru Nakamura. Caruana, who had not defeated Nakamura in classical play since the 2022 Candidates Tournament, finally broke that streak in a gripping match that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.
After a seemingly calm start, Caruana seized the initiative, winning a pawn and entering a complex endgame. Despite a critical misstep that nearly cost him the game, Nakamura’s hasty response allowed Caruana to secure victory, marking a significant moment in the tournament.
Rising Stars Shine
The youngest participant, Uzbekistan’s GM Javokhir Sindarov, also made headlines with a remarkable comeback against Russia’s GM Andrey Esipenko. Initially struggling, Sindarov capitalized on Esipenko’s miscalculations to claim the first win of the round.
Indian GM Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu, previously questioned about his competitiveness, delivered a stunning performance against Anish Giri, employing a rare Grand Prix Attack to secure a smooth victory.
The Women’s Tournament: A Battle of Wits
In the Women’s Candidates, the games were equally riveting, though none resulted in a decisive outcome. GM Zhu Jiner faced off against 2024 Women’s Candidates winner GM Tan Zhongyi in a fierce battle that featured a daring knight sacrifice. Despite Zhu’s aggressive play, Tan held her ground, resulting in a hard-fought draw.
Similarly, Russian GM Aleksandra Goryachkina had her chances against GM Kateryna Lagno but ultimately settled for a draw after missing a winning sequence. GM Bibisara Assaubayeva also had opportunities against India’s GM Vaishali Rameshbabu but could not convert her advantage.
Looking Ahead
As the tournament progresses, players will adapt to the different time controls: the Open section features 120 minutes with no increment until move 41, while the Women’s section begins with 90 minutes and a 30-second increment from the first move.
Round 2 is currently underway, with games starting daily at 8:45 a.m. EDT. The excitement continues as the chess world watches these titans battle for the chance to challenge for the ultimate crown.
For live updates, game coverage, and expert commentary, fans can tune into the official broadcasts on Twitch and YouTube.
Stay tuned for more thrilling chess action as the 2026 FIDE Candidates and Women’s Candidates tournaments unfold!