Highlights from the 2024 FIDE Candidates Tournament: Nepomniachtchi Takes Sole Lead, Gukesh Suffers Heartbreak

GM Ian Nepomniachtchi Takes Sole Lead at Halfway Mark of 2024 FIDE Candidates Tournament

At the halfway mark of the 2024 FIDE Candidates Tournament, GM Ian Nepomniachtchi has surged back into the sole lead after a hard-fought draw against GM Hikaru Nakamura in round seven. Despite Nakamura’s intense preparation and pressure, Nepomniachtchi held his ground to maintain his position at the top of the standings.

Meanwhile, GM Gukesh Dommaraju came close to seizing the lead himself, but a heartbreaking loss against GM Alireza Firouzja in a time scramble dashed his hopes. The other games in round seven, between GM Fabiano Caruana and GM Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu, as well as GM Nijat Abasov and GM Vidit Gujrathi, ended in draws.

On the women’s side, GM Tan Zhongyi continues her dominant performance, maintaining her lead in the 2024 FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament. A decisive result came when GM-elect Vaishali Rameshbabu blundered in time trouble and lost to GM Lei Tingjie.

With the tournament reaching its halfway point, all eyes are on Nepomniachtchi, who has a history of leading at this stage in previous Candidates Tournaments. The next rounds will determine if he can maintain his lead and secure a spot in the World Championship match.

After a rest day, round eight is set to begin on Saturday, April 13, with exciting matchups on the horizon. Fans can expect intense battles as the players strive to secure their positions in the standings.

Stay tuned for more updates and coverage of the 2024 FIDE Candidates Tournament as the competition heats up.