The 2026 FIDE Candidates Tournament is now underway in Cyprus, and the chess world is abuzz with excitement. This is the tournament that will crown the challenger to the reigning World Champion, Dommaraju Gukesh, later this year. For chess players, coaches, and fans, the Candidates is not just another tournament. For them, it is the gateway to history, where reputation is put to the test, and champions are made.
Location and Dates
This year’s Candidates Tournament is being held at the Cap St Georges Hotel & Resort in Cyprus. The tournament will run from March 29 to April 15, 2026. For two weeks, the best chess players from around the world will clash in 14 classical games.
The tournament is a double round-robin, which means that each player will play every other player twice, once with the white pieces and once with the black pieces. This is fair and balanced, while at the same time putting their endurance to the ultimate test.
Participants
Eight players have qualified through different paths, and each brings their own strengths and stories:
| Player | Country | Qualification Path |
|---|---|---|
| Fabiano Caruana | USA | World Cup 2025 |
| Hikaru Nakamura | USA | Grand Swiss |
| Anish Giri | Netherlands | Grand Swiss Winner |
| R Praggnanandhaa | India | World Cup 2025 |
| Wei Yi | China | FIDE Circuit |
| Matthias Bluebaum | Germany | Grand Swiss Runner-up |
| Andrey Esipenko | Russia | FIDE Circuit |
| Javokhir Sindarov | Uzbekistan | World Cup 2025 |
These are names that reflect experience, youth, and creativity. They are names that reflect seasoned veterans and young stars-in-the-making, eager to leave their mark.
Who Are the Favorites?
Fabiano Caruana is a past World Championship finalist and is known for his deep study and tranquil playing style. Hikaru Nakamura is a fan favorite and is known for his speed chess prowess, although he is also very good in the classical format. R Praggnanandhaa is the young Indian sensation, already playing at the highest level and destined to become a superstar in the chess world. Wei Yi is creative and sharp and has the ability to beat anyone in the world with his tactical prowess.
But the Candidates Tournament has a history of unexpected winners. And that is what makes it all the more exciting. Because anyone can win it.
Prize Money
The total prize money is 700,000 euros. The winner receives 48,000 euros, but more important is the fact that the winner gets the right to challenge Gukesh for the World Championship title. The rest of the prize money is divided according to the standings of the other participants. But the prize is not the money; it is the right to play for the title.
Format Details
- Rounds: 14 (double round-robin)
- Time Control: 120 minutes for the first 40 moves, 60 minutes for the next 20, then 15 minutes for the remainder, with 30-second increment between moves.
- Tiebreakers: Rapid and blitz playoffs in case of a tie in first place.
This format guarantees that endurance, preparation, and flexibility are just as critical as skill.
Why It Matters
The Candidates Tournament is the biggest tournament in chess after the World Championship. To emerge victorious in this tournament is to show that one possesses ability, preparation, and nerves of steel among the best in the world. This year, a little later in the schedule, one of these eight contenders will compete in the World Championship against Gukesh in a contest that will write history.
To the fan, it’s an opportunity to see drama, creativity, and determination in action. To the student, it’s an opportunity to learn how determination, discipline, and guts make all the difference between a good player and a great champion.
Start Your Chess Journey
At The New England Chess School, tournaments like this inspire new champions. Watching the best chess players in the world compete is thrilling, but so is playing yourself. We offer the foundation and guidance to take your chess journey to new heights.
Every chess champion in history began with their first lesson, their first game, and their first coach.