Sindarov Secures Playoff Spot in FIDE Candidates; Zhu Climbs in Women’s Tournament

Highlights from Round 12 of the 2026 FIDE Candidates Tournament

• Open Section: GM Javokhir Sindarov draws with GM Hikaru Nakamura, maintaining a two-point lead.
• Women’s Section: GM Zhu Jiner catches up with GM Vaishali Rameshbabu after a decisive victory.
• Upcoming Matches: Round 13 promises high stakes as Sindarov faces Giri and Zhu aims to solidify her position.

Stay Tuned for Full Coverage and Analysis!

Sindarov Secures Playoff Spot in FIDE Candidates Tournament After Thrilling Round 12

In a gripping round of chess that kept fans on the edge of their seats, GM Javokhir Sindarov has guaranteed himself at least a playoff spot in the prestigious 2026 FIDE Candidates Tournament. A quick 35-minute draw against renowned competitor GM Hikaru Nakamura allowed Sindarov to extend his lead to two points with just two rounds remaining.

As the tournament heats up, GM Anish Giri came agonizingly close to narrowing the gap, but his match against GM Wei Yi ended in a draw after a tense 77 moves. Giri’s upcoming clash with Sindarov in round 13 promises to be a pivotal moment in the tournament, as he must secure a win to keep his championship hopes alive.

The round was marked by a series of draws, including a well-fought battle between GM Andrey Esipenko and GM Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu, showcasing the strategic depth of the tournament. Meanwhile, GM Matthias Bluebaum was unable to avenge his earlier defeat to GM Fabiano Caruana, further solidifying the competitive nature of this year’s event.

Women’s Candidates: Zhu Jiner Climbs to the Top

In the women’s tournament, round 12 was nothing short of explosive, with three decisive results shaking up the leaderboard. GM Zhu Jiner’s victory over GM Vaishali Rameshbabu allowed her to catch up with the leader, both now sitting at seven points. GM Bibisara Assaubayeva also made waves by defeating GM Kateryna Lagno, slipping just half a point behind the leaders.

The only draw of the round occurred between GM Anna Muzychuk and GM Aleksandra Goryachkina, where Muzychuk let a winning position slip away, allowing for a stalemate in a tense rook endgame.

With only two rounds left, the stakes are high for all competitors. The upcoming round 13, scheduled for Tuesday, April 14, at 8:45 a.m. ET, will be crucial for both the Open and Women’s tournaments.

Looking Ahead

As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on the highly anticipated match between Sindarov and Giri. A win for Giri could keep his championship dreams alive, while a draw or loss would see Sindarov clinch the tournament with a round to spare.

Fans can catch all the action live on Chess24’s YouTube and Twitch channels, as well as through the official events page. The FIDE Candidates Tournament remains the most significant chess event of the year, with players vying for the chance to challenge the reigning world champions.

Stay tuned for full coverage of round 12 and the exciting matches to come!