Fabiano Caruana Dominates Play-in Stage of Champions Chess Tour Chess.com Classic 2024

Fabiano Caruana, the world number-two GM, made a resounding comeback by finishing first in the Play-in stage of the Champions Chess Tour Chess.com Classic 2024. This victory comes after a disappointing final round in the 2024 FIDE Candidates Tournament, showcasing Caruana’s great form on Wednesday.

The top 11 finishers from the Play-in stage will move on to Division I Placement, while 18 players will advance to Division II Placement and 40 to Division III Placement. Day two of the tournament is set to begin on Thursday, May 9, at 12:30 p.m. ET / 18:30 CEST / 10 p.m. IST.

The Chess.com Classic is part of the Champions Chess Tour and serves as the second event leading to the grand Finals at the end of the year. The tournament features a field of 167 players, predominantly grandmasters, including big names like Magnus Carlsen, Alireza Firouzja, and Wesley So.

Caruana’s stellar performance in the Play-in stage sets him up for a strong start in the Division I Placement stage. He dominated the tournament, winning his first four games and displaying excellent preparation and strategic play. Caruana’s win against GM Andrey Esipenko in the final round solidified his position at the top of the standings.

The tournament format includes a mix of miniatures and intense battles, with players like Jan-Krzysztof Duda and Wesley So showcasing their attacking prowess. Caruana’s success in the event marks a significant turnaround from his previous performance, where he struggled to make it past Division III.

Caruana’s next challenge will be in the Division I Placement stage, where he will face tough competition from other top players. The Chess.com Classic promises exciting matchups and intense battles as players vie for a spot in the prestigious Finals. Stay tuned for more updates on this thrilling chess event.