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Sindarov Surges, Caruana Stays Close as Tension Rises in the Women’s Candidates
Javokhir Sindarov defeated Hikaru Nakamura in round five of the FIDE Candidates to reach +4, while Fabiano Caruana kept within striking distance with a win over Matthias Bluebaum. In the Women’s Candidates, Kateryna Lagno beat Bibisara Assaubayeva and Zhu Jiner joined the lead after a strong victory over Vaishali.
Sindarov surges, Caruana stays close as Women’s race tightens
Javokhir Sindarov defeated Hikaru Nakamura in round five of the FIDE Candidates to reach 4.5/5, while Fabiano Caruana remained his closest pursuer. In the Women’s Candidates, Kateryna Lagno and Zhu Jiner won crucial games, creating a three-way tie for first place.
FIDE Travel Support for Samarkand 2026 Olympiad and Congress
FIDE has outlined travel subsidies for eligible federations attending the 2026 Chess Olympiad and FIDE Congress in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Support will vary by development category and continent, and invited teams as well as Congress delegates are covered under the scheme.
FIDE Chess in Education Courses for April 2026
FIDE’s Chess in Education Commission has announced a new set of online and in-person courses for spring 2026. The programs aim to train both educational chess teachers and the lecturers who will prepare future instructors worldwide.
Candidates Tournament Rest Day Brings a Lighter Mood
The first rest day at the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026 offered players a welcome break from intense preparation and game-day pressure. While some relaxed with sport or seaside walks, Andrey Esipenko and Anna Muzychuk joined a traditional Cypriot halloumi-making workshop.
FIDE releases Technical Commission Manual
FIDE has published the Technical Commission Manual as a central reference for the technical standards applied in its competitions. The document brings together guidance on equipment, approved products, tournament software, Swiss pairing systems and tie-break procedures.
Sindarov Strikes Again, Anna Muzychuk Joins the Lead
Javokhir Sindarov earned his third win of the FIDE Candidates by defeating Fabiano Caruana with sharp opening preparation. In the Women’s Candidates, Anna Muzychuk and Zhu Jiner scored vital wins, with Muzychuk moving into a share of first place.
FIDE Confirms Qualifiers for Women’s Grand Prix 2026-2027
FIDE has clarified the qualification paths for the 2026-2027 Women’s Grand Prix, where 20 elite players will compete across six events for two coveted spots in the 2028 Women’s Candidates. The format rewards both strong performances and consistency throughout the series.
FIDE April 2026 Ratings: Prague, Rising Stars and Top-10 Changes
The April 2026 FIDE rating list was shaped by major spring events led by the Prague International Chess Festival, Aeroflot Open and KazChess Masters. Nodirbek Abdusattorov climbed to world No. 4, while Divya Deshmukh returned to the women’s top 10 and several young talents posted major rating gains.
Caruana and Sindarov break away early at Cap St Georges
Fabiano Caruana and Javokhir Sindarov took early control of the tournament with statement wins in round three. In the women’s event, Kateryna Lagno and Bibisara Assaubayeva moved into shared first place after fighting victories.
Caruana and Sindarov take early control in the Candidates
Fabiano Caruana and Javokhir Sindarov moved into the lead after round three of the FIDE Candidates with key victories over Wei Yi and Praggnanandhaa. In the Women’s Candidates, Kateryna Lagno and Bibisara Assaubayeva climbed to the top after decisive wins.
FIDE Launches Global Chess Teacher Preparation Course for Women
FIDE’s Women’s Commission and Educational Commission have launched a global online teacher preparation course designed specifically for women. The initiative aims to strengthen women’s role in chess education, visibility, and long-term participation in the game.
Gumularz and Kiolbasa Crowned 2026 Polish Chess Champions
GM Szymon Gumularz and IM Oliwia Kiolbasa won their first Polish national titles in Warsaw. Gumularz dominated the open event, while Kiolbasa sealed the women’s crown with a final-round victory.
2026 FIDE Candidates Round 2: Eight Draws, Two Missed Chances
Round 2 of the 2026 FIDE Candidates and Women’s Candidates produced eight hard-fought draws, leaving both standings unchanged. In the women’s event, Divya Deshmukh and Zhu Jiner missed notable chances to take the lead.
FIDE Candidates Round 2: Draws Hold the Race Tight
All eight games in round two of the 2026 FIDE Candidates and Women’s Candidates ended in draws. Fabiano Caruana, R Praggnanandhaa and Javokhir Sindarov remain among the leaders, while missed tactical chances kept the women’s event completely level.
Registration Opens for FIDE World Team Rapid and Blitz 2026 in Hong Kong
FIDE has opened registration for the 2026 World Team Rapid and Blitz Championships, to be held in Hong Kong from 16 to 22 June. The mixed-team format will once again bring super-grandmasters and recreational players together across six boards.
Caruana, Praggnanandhaa and Sindarov strike first; all Women’s Candidates games drawn
The FIDE Candidates and Women’s Candidates began in Cyprus before a full house. Fabiano Caruana, R Praggnanandhaa and Javokhir Sindarov scored opening-round wins, while all four games in the women’s event ended in draws.
2026 FIDE Candidates Open in Style in Cyprus
Cyprus staged a vibrant opening ceremony for the 2026 FIDE Candidates and Women’s Candidates, mixing ceremony, culture, and anticipation. With the players now in place, the focus turns to the fight for the right to challenge for the world title.
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FIDE Assesses CAS Appeal Decision in Case 11/2023
FIDE confirmed receipt of the CAS ruling on the appeal in Case 11/2023 and said it will review the decision’s broader implications with legal advisers and its Constitutional Commission.
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Haik Martirosyan Wins the 19th Agzamov Memorial
GM Haik Martirosyan won the 19th Agzamov Memorial in Tashkent, beating GM Artem Uskov on Buchholz tiebreak by just 0.5 points.