Javokhir Sindarov: The Rising Star Poised to Challenge for the World Title at Candidates 2026
Photo by Niki Riga
NEW DELHI: As Javokhir Sindarov from Uzbekistan continues his remarkable performance at the ongoing FIDE Candidates 2026 tournament, it seems increasingly likely that he will soon be crowned the winner. With an unbeaten record and a unique playing style, Sindarov is set to challenge reigning World Champion D Gukesh later this year.
Javokhir Sindarov Poised for Glory at FIDE Candidates 2026
NEW DELHI: If this piece were written a few days later, the word “likely” in the headline might no longer be necessary. It feels more like a matter of time than anything that Javokhir Sindarov from Uzbekistan will be announced the winner of the ongoing FIDE Candidates 2026 tournament. As per tradition, he will be the one challenging the reigning World Champion D Gukesh for the title later this year.
At just 20 years old, Sindarov has taken the chess world by storm, qualifying for the Candidates after clinching victory at the 2025 FIDE World Cup in Goa, India. His performance has been nothing short of exceptional, with an unbeaten record that includes six wins out of ten games—an impressive feat that has captured the attention of chess enthusiasts globally.
Unlike many of his contemporaries who deliberate over each move, Sindarov has adopted a rapid-fire approach, making decisions in the blink of an eye. This strategy not only gives him a significant time advantage but also leaves spectators and opponents alike in awe.
From Struggles to Sponsorship
A stark contrast to his current success, Sindarov faced significant challenges just a year and a half ago, struggling to find sponsors to support his burgeoning career. “There has been a problem with chess because people do not have money, although it’s a very expensive sport,” said Tom Guilbaud, Sindarov’s manager. “You have to travel a lot. You have lots of expenses.”
In a bid to attract sponsors, Guilbaud launched a YouTube channel for Sindarov in October 2024, which has since garnered over 300 subscribers. “That’s why I created his social media. It’s 99.9% handled by me. He barely tweets or opens anything,” Guilbaud explained. The effort has paid off, with Sindarov recently securing sponsorships from the National Bank of Uzbekistan and an internet provider company.
A Journey from ‘No One’ to World Contender
When Guilbaud took on Sindarov’s management, the young chess prodigy had no sponsors and relied heavily on his grandfather, Dr. Komil Sindarov, who was his first coach and is now the vice-president of the Uzbekistan Chess Federation. “In my eyes, that’s very hard to understand that today Javokhir is a top world player,” Guilbaud remarked, reflecting on Sindarov’s meteoric rise from being ranked around 60-70 in the world to a leading contender.
Balancing Chess and Gaming
Despite his rigorous training and tournament schedule, Sindarov finds solace in gaming, particularly in Counter-Strike. However, his commitment to chess leaves little time for leisure. “He says he’s a good gamer, but he considers himself a gamer because all his free time he plays,” Guilbaud noted. Yet, the reality is that he only manages about three hours of gaming a week.
The Psychology of Speed
Guilbaud, who also coaches an Esports team, has occasionally assisted Sindarov with chess preparation. He emphasizes that his role is not to provide tips but to handle the “dirty work” of opponent scouting. “Chess at this level is a very mental and psychological game,” he said. “Playing fast is also a way of saying, ‘I know what I’m doing. I’m confident in what I’m doing. And you’re not.’ It sends a very strong message to the opponent.”
As Sindarov approaches the finish line in the Candidates, his blend of confidence, rapid play, and a solid support structure positions him as a formidable contender for the World Championship title. The chess world watches with bated breath, eager to see if this young talent can turn his dreams into reality.