Highlights from the 2026 Norway Chess: Ups and Downs in Oslo

Norway Chess 2026: A Tournament of Surprises and New Beginnings

The 14th edition of Norway Chess has unfolded in Oslo, marking a significant shift from its traditional venue in Stavanger. As the tournament approaches its halfway point, the chess world is abuzz with unexpected twists, from Magnus Carlsen’s struggles to Divya Deshmukh’s rise in the women’s standings.

Carlsen’s Unexpected Struggles

Defending champion Magnus Carlsen, widely regarded as one of the greatest chess players of all time, has faced a reality check this year. Arriving in Oslo as a favorite to secure a record-extending eighth title, Carlsen has found himself at the bottom of the standings with just 4.5 points after five Classical matches. His performance has been marred by three losses, including a notable defeat against India’s R Praggnanandhaa.

Carlsen’s pre-tournament comments hinted at a lack of motivation in the Classical format, suggesting that his “hunger” would depend on the challenges presented to him. With only one win against D Gukesh, the question arises: has the competition become too fierce for the semi-retired champion?

Gukesh’s Expressive Side

In contrast, reigning world champion D Gukesh has shown a more expressive side during this tournament. Known for his reserved demeanor, Gukesh surprised fans by sharing his thoughts in the confessional booth—a unique feature of Norway Chess. After securing his first Classical win against Praggnanandhaa, Gukesh’s emotional reactions have captivated audiences, revealing a depth to his character that fans rarely see.

As he continues to navigate the tournament, Gukesh’s ability to balance humility with moments of exuberance is refreshing and indicative of his growth as a player.

Divya Deshmukh: A Rising Star

On the women’s side, Divya Deshmukh has emerged as a standout performer, currently leading the standings in the Norway Chess Women’s tournament. Following her historic victory over Koneru Humpy in the 2025 FIDE World Cup, Divya’s ascent continues to inspire a new generation of female chess players in India.

With her recent win against China’s Zhu Jiner, Divya is proving that her previous successes were not mere flukes. As she competes against Kazakhstan’s Bibisara Assaubayeva, her journey reflects the rapid progress of women’s chess in India, further solidifying her status as a formidable competitor.

A Tournament of Change

As Norway Chess 2026 unfolds, it is clear that the landscape of competitive chess is evolving. With Carlsen’s unexpected challenges, Gukesh’s newfound expressiveness, and Divya’s remarkable rise, this year’s tournament is not just about the games played but also about the narratives that shape the future of chess.

With four rounds still to go, fans eagerly await the next chapter in this thrilling tournament, where every move could redefine the chess hierarchy.