India Assembles Strong Squads for FIDE Chess Olympiad 2024: Defending Champions Aim for Glory in Samarkand
India Aims to Defend Chess Olympiad Titles with Stellar Squads
NEW DELHI: Defending champions India are gearing up for the FIDE Chess Olympiad 2026, set to take place in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, from September 16 to 27. With a formidable lineup, the nation is determined to retain both the Open and Women’s team titles, having made history by clinching gold in both categories for the first time in 2024.
Leading the charge for the men’s team is world champion D Gukesh, alongside rising star R Praggnanandhaa and Women’s Candidates winner R Vaishali. The men’s squad also includes Arjun Erigaisi, Nihal Sarin, and Vidit Gujrathi, with seasoned coach Srinath Narayanan at the helm as captain. Sarin is the only new face in the lineup that triumphed in 2024, showcasing India’s depth in talent.
The women’s team boasts an equally impressive roster, featuring chess legends Koneru Humpy and R Vaishali, along with Divya Deshmukh, Vantika Agrawal, and Savitha Shri B. Under the leadership of captain Swayams Mishra, the team has been bolstered by the return of Humpy and Savitha, both of whom bring invaluable experience to the squad.
Praggnanandhaa’s Form and Vaishali’s Rise Boost Hopes
As the Olympiad approaches, Praggnanandhaa enters the competition with renewed confidence after his stunning victory at the prestigious Norway Chess tournament in June. The 20-year-old showcased his prowess by defeating world No. 1 Magnus Carlsen and Gukesh, solidifying his status as a formidable contender.
Meanwhile, Gukesh is eager to bounce back from a disappointing performance at the Chennai Grand Masters, where he finished last with just two points. His determination to reclaim his top form will be crucial for India’s chances.
On the women’s side, R Vaishali has emerged as a beacon of hope for Indian chess. Earlier this year, she made history by becoming the first Indian woman to win the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament, earning the right to challenge China’s Ju Wenjun for the Women’s World Championship. Her ascent, coupled with Humpy’s experience and the talent of reigning Women’s World Cup winner Divya Deshmukh, positions India as a strong contender in the women’s category.
Squads for the Chess Olympiad 2026
Open Team:
- D Gukesh
- Arjun Erigaisi
- R Praggnanandhaa
- Nihal Sarin
- Vidit Gujrathi
Captain: Srinath Narayanan
Women’s Team:
- Koneru Humpy
- R Vaishali
- Divya Deshmukh
- Vantika Agrawal
- Savitha Shri B
Captain: Swayams Mishra
Anand Takes the Helm as FIDE Interim President
In a significant development for Indian chess, five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand has stepped in as the interim FIDE president. This transition follows incumbent Arkady Dvorkovich’s temporary suspension amid sanctions related to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Anand, who has served as Deputy President since 2022, now leads the global governing body during a pivotal time for chess.
As India prepares to defend its titles, Anand’s leadership adds another layer of excitement to the upcoming Olympiad, marking a historic moment for Indian chess on the world stage. With a blend of seasoned champions and emerging talents, the nation is poised to make its mark once again.