Sindarov Maintains Lead as FIDE Candidates Tournament Enters Final Stretch

Round 11 Recap: All Draws, No Decisive Wins

Women’s Candidates: Vaishali Rameshbabu Secures Key Victory

Upcoming Matches: Round 12 Pairings and What to Watch For

GM Javokhir Sindarov Maintains Lead as FIDE Candidates Tournament Enters Final Stretch

April 12, 2026 — The excitement is palpable as the 2026 FIDE Candidates Tournament approaches its climax, with GM Javokhir Sindarov holding a commanding two-point lead after round 11. In a day where all games ended in draws, Sindarov’s ability to hold GM Fabiano Caruana was crucial in maintaining his lead, as the tournament enters its final three rounds.

Sindarov, the rising star from Uzbekistan, has demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout the tournament. His strategic prowess was on full display as he navigated a tense match against Caruana, ensuring that no one could close the gap. Meanwhile, GM Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu came tantalizingly close to securing the only decisive victory of the day against GM Matthias Bluebaum, who recorded his tenth draw of the tournament.

In another notable match, GM Anish Giri failed to capitalize on an isolated-pawn position against GM Andrey Esipenko, while GM Hikaru Nakamura opted for the quickest draw against GM Wei Yi, further solidifying Sindarov’s position at the top.

Women’s Candidates: Vaishali Rameshbabu Shines

In the Women’s Candidates Tournament, GM Vaishali Rameshbabu delivered a standout performance, trapping GM Aleksandra Goryachkina’s rook in the center of the board to secure her fourth win in six games. This victory has propelled her to a full point ahead of her closest rivals, GMs Zhu Jiner and Anna Muzychuk, both of whom were held to draws in their respective matches.

Vaishali’s impressive run has set the stage for a critical round 12, where she will face one of her closest competitors. A win could significantly bolster her chances of claiming the title, while a loss could lead to a dramatic shake-up in the standings.

Looking Ahead

As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on round 12, set to commence on Sunday, April 12, at 8:45 a.m. ET / 14:45 CEST / 6:15 p.m. IST. Sindarov will have the white pieces in two of the remaining three games, raising the stakes for his opponents, particularly Nakamura, who can no longer mathematically win the event.

The tension is mounting as players prepare for what could be a decisive round in both the Open and Women’s events. Fans can catch all the action live on Chess24’s YouTube and Twitch channels, as well as through the official events page.

Stay tuned for more updates as the 2026 FIDE Candidates Tournament unfolds, promising thrilling chess and unforgettable moments in the world of competitive play.