Indian Chess Stars Gukesh and Praggnanandhaa to Participate in Chess Olympiad in Budapest

Indian chess prodigies D Gukesh and R Praggnanandhaa are set to make their mark on the international stage once again as they gear up to participate in the upcoming Chess Olympiad in Hungary’s Budapest this September.

Gukesh, who is slated to challenge defending world champion Ding Liren of China in the World Chess Championship in November, views the Olympiad as a crucial dress rehearsal leading up to the summit clash. The 18-year-old has been on a stellar run this year, clinching victory at the prestigious Candidates event in Toronto back in April, making him the youngest contender in the World Championship finale.

The All India Chess Federation (AICF) President Nitin Narang confirmed the participation of Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa, Arjun Erigaisi, Vidit Gujrathi, and Harikrishna Pentala in the men’s team, while the women’s team will feature Harika Dronavalli, Vaishali Rameshbabu, Divya Deshmukh, Vantika Agrawal, and Tania Sachdev.

Notably, Grandmaster Koneru Humpy, who secured the bronze medal in 2022, is missing from the women’s team for reasons undisclosed. Narang also revealed that discussions are underway with coaches to organize a pre-event camp in late August, with details regarding the venue and dates to be finalized soon.

The upcoming Olympiad will mark the 45th edition of the prestigious event, with Hungary hosting it officially for the first time after hosting the second unofficial Chess Olympiad in 1926. India, which hosted the previous edition in 2022, secured bronze medals in both the Open and Women’s categories.

Chess enthusiasts and fans alike are eagerly anticipating the performance of the Indian contingent at the Olympiad, as they look to continue their winning streak on the global stage. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting event.