Magnus Carlsen and Gukesh Dommaraju Face Off Again at Norway Chess in Oslo’s Deichman Bjørvika Library

Magnus Carlsen and Gukesh Dommaraju Set for Epic Rematch at Oslo Library

Oslo, Norway — A year after the dramatic showdown that saw Magnus Carlsen slam his fist on the table following a loss to Gukesh Dommaraju at Norway Chess, the two chess titans are set to face off once again—this time in an unexpected venue: the Deichman Bjørvika library, Oslo’s main public library.

The library, a stunning six-storey facility housing approximately half a million books, has transformed its third floor into a unique playing arena. Rows of books from the music section flank the chess tables, creating an atmosphere that blends intellectual pursuit with the thrill of competition. Fans have already begun to flock to the venue, capturing the extraordinary setting where Norway’s favorite chess son will battle some of the world’s best players in classical chess.

This year’s Norway Chess tournament is particularly significant as it marks one of the rare occasions where Carlsen, now 35, will engage in the longest format of the game. As he increasingly gravitates towards faster time controls and newer variants like Freestyle Chess, many are left wondering how much longer the reigning world champion will participate in classical chess.

Norway has been captivated by Carlsen’s exploits; reports indicate that around 20% of the country’s five million residents tuned in to watch him compete at the World Rapid and Blitz Championship just two years ago.

In addition to Carlsen and Gukesh, this year’s tournament will feature rising stars such as R Praggnanandhaa, Vincent Keymer—fresh off a victory at the Super Chess Classic Romania—Wesley So, and Alireza Firouzja. However, all eyes will be on the Carlsen-Gukesh encounters, a clash between the reigning world champion and the World No. 1, who might have still held the title had he not shifted focus away from classical chess.

A Course Correction for Gukesh

In the 18 months since Gukesh became the youngest world champion in chess history, discussions have largely centered around his recent struggles. The 19-year-old has not secured a tournament win since his crowning moment in December 2024. Recognizing the need for a change, Gukesh has reduced his tournament load, opting to skip several Grand Chess Tour events to focus on training.

“My performance in the last few events has been quite disappointing,” Gukesh shared on social media. “To find my best form, my team and I have decided to compete with slightly less intensity over the next few months.”

Carlsen has not held back in his critiques of the young champion. Just last month, he remarked on Gukesh’s weaknesses, stating, “Gukesh has very obvious weaknesses when it comes to his understanding.” This could serve as additional motivation for Gukesh as he prepares to face Carlsen in their upcoming classical chess duel.

The infamous fist smash incident from last year still looms large in the minds of fans and players alike. Gukesh’s coach, Grzegorz Gajewski, expressed hope that Gukesh’s previous victory over Carlsen would bolster his confidence. “Now that Gukesh has beaten him, I hope this is going to give him some credit. And a lot of confidence,” Gajewski said.

With just six months remaining before Gukesh defends his world championship title, a victory against Carlsen could provide a much-needed boost for the young prodigy.

As the chess world eagerly anticipates this rematch in the enchanting setting of Oslo’s library, one thing is certain: the stakes have never been higher for both players.