Players
Dommaraju
Sindarov
GM Gukesh Dommaraju became the youngest undisputed World Champion in history in December 2024, beating GM Ding Liren in Singapore at just 18 years old. The Chennai native reached a 2750 rating before turning 18 and remains one of India's top-ranked players.
GM Javokhir Sindarov earned his shot at the title with a dominant, unbeaten 10/14 score at the 2026 Candidates Tournament, the best showing in the event's modern history. The Tashkent native became a grandmaster at just 12 years old and the youngest-ever Chess World Cup champion in 2025.
Format & Schedule
Previsional Schedule
A minimum prize fund of $2,500,000
The FIDE World Chess Championship takes place in Geneva, Switzerland.
Past Champions
The World Chess Championship dates to 1886, when Wilhelm Steinitz became the first official champion. GM Magnus Carlsen held the crown for a decade before stepping away in 2023, opening the door for a new generation. GM Gukesh Dommaraju became the youngest World Champion in history in 2024, defeating GM Ding Liren in Singapore. The 2026 match will produce the youngest title clash ever contested, with both Gukesh and challenger GM Javokhir Sindarov turning 20 during the event.
