Cyprus to host FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026

Cyprus will be the venue for one of the world's most prestigious chess events — the FIDE Candidates 2026 and the Women’s Candidates. The tournaments will start on March 28, bringing the planet's strongest chess players to the island.

The Candidates Tournament will determine the next challenger for the reigning World Champion. The winner will earn the right to play a match for the world chess crown against World Champion D. Gukesh.

Leading grandmasters are expected to participate, including Indian chess player R. Praggnanandhaa, who is considered one of the main contenders for victory. Simultaneously, the Women's Candidates Tournament will take place, where the world's strongest female players will compete for the right to play for the World Champion title.

The decision to hold the tournament in Cyprus was made last November, and organizers are now in the final stages of preparation. FIDE CEO Emil Sutovsky confirmed that the competitions will proceed as scheduled.

According to him, Cyprus is not in a state of war, so there are no reasons to postpone the tournament. Organizers continue to work closely with Cypriot authorities to ensure the safety of participants and guests.

However, Indian Grandmaster Koneru Humpy stated she is considering withdrawing from the women's tournament, citing regional tensions. She also noted that alternative dates could have been considered for such a major event.

Despite these concerns, FIDE confirms the tournament will be held in Cyprus, making it one of the country's major sporting events of the year.