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Javokhir Sindarov — the Uzbek jewel taking FIDE Chess Candidates 2026 by storm

Giri attempted to build pressure along the d-file, but Sindarov defended resolutely with Be6 and Re6, neutralising White’s efforts.

The game later transitioned into a rook and bishop endgame, where neither side could find a breakthrough, before the players repeated moves to agree to a draw by threefold repetition.

Other results in the Open section saw Hikaru Nakamura pick up another draw against Matthias Bluebaum, Wei Yi defeat Andrey Esipenko, and R. Praggnanandhaa draw against Fabiano Caruana.

Published on Apr 14, 2026

#FIDE #Candidates #Open #Section #Sindarov #seals #title #spare #extends #unbeaten #run #games"> FIDE Candidates 2026 Open Section: Sindarov seals title with a round to spare; extends unbeaten run to 50 games  Javokhir Sindarov’s dream run at the FIDE Candidates 2026 was sealed with a draw against Anish Giri in Round 13, securing him a shot at the FIDE World Championship against D. Gukesh later this year.Sindarov remains unbeaten in the tournament and clinched the Candidates title with a round to spare.Heading into Tuesday’s Round 13, Sindarov held a two-point lead. Giri needed a win to cut the deficit to one and take the contest into the final day, but the draw ensured Sindarov wrapped up the title.Giri opened with 1. e4, and Sindarov responded with a rock-solid set-up. By move 15, several pieces had been exchanged, leading to a queenless middlegame, a scenario that suited Sindarov as he looked to minimise risk.ALSO READ: Javokhir Sindarov — the Uzbek jewel taking FIDE Chess Candidates 2026 by stormGiri attempted to build pressure along the d-file, but Sindarov defended resolutely with Be6 and Re6, neutralising White’s efforts.The game later transitioned into a rook and bishop endgame, where neither side could find a breakthrough, before the players repeated moves to agree to a draw by threefold repetition.Other results in the Open section saw Hikaru Nakamura pick up another draw against Matthias Bluebaum, Wei Yi defeat Andrey Esipenko, and R. Praggnanandhaa draw against Fabiano Caruana.Published on Apr 14, 2026  #FIDE #Candidates #Open #Section #Sindarov #seals #title #spare #extends #unbeaten #run #games
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Javokhir Sindarov — the Uzbek jewel taking FIDE Chess Candidates 2026 by storm

Giri attempted to build pressure along the d-file, but Sindarov defended resolutely with Be6 and Re6, neutralising White’s efforts.

The game later transitioned into a rook and bishop endgame, where neither side could find a breakthrough, before the players repeated moves to agree to a draw by threefold repetition.

Other results in the Open section saw Hikaru Nakamura pick up another draw against Matthias Bluebaum, Wei Yi defeat Andrey Esipenko, and R. Praggnanandhaa draw against Fabiano Caruana.

Published on Apr 14, 2026

#FIDE #Candidates #Open #Section #Sindarov #seals #title #spare #extends #unbeaten #run #games">FIDE Candidates 2026 Open Section: Sindarov seals title with a round to spare; extends unbeaten run to 50 games

Javokhir Sindarov’s dream run at the FIDE Candidates 2026 was sealed with a draw against Anish Giri in Round 13, securing him a shot at the FIDE World Championship against D. Gukesh later this year.

Sindarov remains unbeaten in the tournament and clinched the Candidates title with a round to spare.

Heading into Tuesday’s Round 13, Sindarov held a two-point lead. Giri needed a win to cut the deficit to one and take the contest into the final day, but the draw ensured Sindarov wrapped up the title.

Giri opened with 1. e4, and Sindarov responded with a rock-solid set-up. By move 15, several pieces had been exchanged, leading to a queenless middlegame, a scenario that suited Sindarov as he looked to minimise risk.

ALSO READ: Javokhir Sindarov — the Uzbek jewel taking FIDE Chess Candidates 2026 by storm

Giri attempted to build pressure along the d-file, but Sindarov defended resolutely with Be6 and Re6, neutralising White’s efforts.

The game later transitioned into a rook and bishop endgame, where neither side could find a breakthrough, before the players repeated moves to agree to a draw by threefold repetition.

Other results in the Open section saw Hikaru Nakamura pick up another draw against Matthias Bluebaum, Wei Yi defeat Andrey Esipenko, and R. Praggnanandhaa draw against Fabiano Caruana.

Published on Apr 14, 2026

#FIDE #Candidates #Open #Section #Sindarov #seals #title #spare #extends #unbeaten #run #games

Javokhir Sindarov’s dream run at the FIDE Candidates 2026 was sealed with a draw against…

Check out all the updates from Round 13 as it happened

Tan later delivered a check with Qe8+, forcing Vaishali’s king to h7. Material remained level, but the position remained volatile with several pieces on the board.

However, with Vaishali’s knight finding strong outposts on d3 and f4, posing a growing threat to the kingside, Tan opted against taking further risks. The players soon repeated moves to agree to a draw by threefold repetition.

Vaishali appeared content with the result against the former World Champion, staying in title contention heading into the final round.

Published on Apr 14, 2026

#FIDE #Candidates #Womens #section #Vaishali #draws #Tan #Bibisara #joins #top #table"> FIDE Candidates 2026, Women’s section: Vaishali draws with Tan as Bibisara joins her at top of table  Indian GM R Vaishali kept herself well in contention to claim the FIDE women’s candidates title after she claimed a draw against Tan Zhongyi in Round 13 on Tuesday.Vaishali is in joint-lead with 7.5 points, alongside Bibisara, and will now face Lagno Kateryna in the final round on Wednesday.Vaishali can clinch the title if she out-scores Bibisara on Wednesday and second-placed Zhu Jiner fails to win her tie.Playing with the black pieces, Vaishali opted for a solid Queen’s Gambit Accepted. By move 15, the position was roughly equal, with Tan attempting to build pressure on the kingside, but Vaishali held firm with a sound defensive set-up.ALSO READ: Check out all the updates from Round 13 as it happenedTan later delivered a check with Qe8+, forcing Vaishali’s king to h7. Material remained level, but the position remained volatile with several pieces on the board.However, with Vaishali’s knight finding strong outposts on d3 and f4, posing a growing threat to the kingside, Tan opted against taking further risks. The players soon repeated moves to agree to a draw by threefold repetition.Vaishali appeared content with the result against the former World Champion, staying in title contention heading into the final round.Published on Apr 14, 2026  #FIDE #Candidates #Womens #section #Vaishali #draws #Tan #Bibisara #joins #top #table
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Check out all the updates from Round 13 as it happened

Tan later delivered a check with Qe8+, forcing Vaishali’s king to h7. Material remained level, but the position remained volatile with several pieces on the board.

However, with Vaishali’s knight finding strong outposts on d3 and f4, posing a growing threat to the kingside, Tan opted against taking further risks. The players soon repeated moves to agree to a draw by threefold repetition.

Vaishali appeared content with the result against the former World Champion, staying in title contention heading into the final round.

Published on Apr 14, 2026

#FIDE #Candidates #Womens #section #Vaishali #draws #Tan #Bibisara #joins #top #table">FIDE Candidates 2026, Women’s section: Vaishali draws with Tan as Bibisara joins her at top of table

Indian GM R Vaishali kept herself well in contention to claim the FIDE women’s candidates title after she claimed a draw against Tan Zhongyi in Round 13 on Tuesday.

Vaishali is in joint-lead with 7.5 points, alongside Bibisara, and will now face Lagno Kateryna in the final round on Wednesday.

Vaishali can clinch the title if she out-scores Bibisara on Wednesday and second-placed Zhu Jiner fails to win her tie.

Playing with the black pieces, Vaishali opted for a solid Queen’s Gambit Accepted. By move 15, the position was roughly equal, with Tan attempting to build pressure on the kingside, but Vaishali held firm with a sound defensive set-up.

ALSO READ: Check out all the updates from Round 13 as it happened

Tan later delivered a check with Qe8+, forcing Vaishali’s king to h7. Material remained level, but the position remained volatile with several pieces on the board.

However, with Vaishali’s knight finding strong outposts on d3 and f4, posing a growing threat to the kingside, Tan opted against taking further risks. The players soon repeated moves to agree to a draw by threefold repetition.

Vaishali appeared content with the result against the former World Champion, staying in title contention heading into the final round.

Published on Apr 14, 2026

#FIDE #Candidates #Womens #section #Vaishali #draws #Tan #Bibisara #joins #top #table

Indian GM R Vaishali kept herself well in contention to claim the FIDE women’s candidates…

Sports news

The FIDE Candidates 2026 is advancing to its final stages, and the women’s category in…

Check out what happened in Round 12 as it happened in the live blog

However, the tide turned during the frantic final scramble. Under severe time pressure, Giri fumbled his advantage by failing to find the clinical killing blow.

Instead of tightening the noose, a series of repetitive checks allowed Wei Yi to escape. By move 77, with neither side able to break the deadlock, Giri was forced to settle for a frustrating draw via threefold repetition.

Other results saw India’s R. Praggnanandhaa draw against Andrey Esipenko, while Matthias Bluebaum held Fabiano Caruana to a draw.

Published on Apr 12, 2026

#FIDE #Candidates #Open #Section #Sindarov #plays #quick #draw #Nakamura #extend #lead #standings"> FIDE Candidates 2026 Open Section: Sindarov plays a quick draw with Nakamura to extend lead in standings  It was in stark contrast to his fifth-round outing, when Hikaru Nakamura (5.5) took over an hour for a single move, as his Round 12 clash against Open section leader Javokhir Sindarov (9) ended in a draw in under 45 minutes on Sunday. Anish Giri (7) was also held by Wei Yi (5.5), allowing Sindarov to head into the rest day on Monday with a two-point lead.Sindarov opened with 1. d4, and the game soon transitioned into a Catalan-style setup with g3 and Bg2. Nakamura chose a solid theoretical line, conceding central space but gaining the bishop pair.Between moves nine and 26, the players exchanged queens and most of the minor pieces. By move 26 (Rd1 Rxd1), the position had been stripped of its major attacking potential. Sindarov held a slightly better king position, but Nakamura’s bishops provided sufficient compensation.With little scope for progress, both players shuffled their pieces before agreeing to a draw.On the other board, GM Anish saw a golden opportunity to climb the standings slip through his fingers. Dominating much of the mid-game, Giri steered the match into a highly favourable endgame where a full point seemed inevitable. His strategic pressure forced Wei Yi into a desperate defensive shell.ALSO READ: Check out what happened in Round 12 as it happened in the live blogHowever, the tide turned during the frantic final scramble. Under severe time pressure, Giri fumbled his advantage by failing to find the clinical killing blow.Instead of tightening the noose, a series of repetitive checks allowed Wei Yi to escape. By move 77, with neither side able to break the deadlock, Giri was forced to settle for a frustrating draw via threefold repetition.Other results saw India’s R. Praggnanandhaa draw against Andrey Esipenko, while Matthias Bluebaum held Fabiano Caruana to a draw.Published on Apr 12, 2026  #FIDE #Candidates #Open #Section #Sindarov #plays #quick #draw #Nakamura #extend #lead #standings
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Check out what happened in Round 12 as it happened in the live blog

However, the tide turned during the frantic final scramble. Under severe time pressure, Giri fumbled his advantage by failing to find the clinical killing blow.

Instead of tightening the noose, a series of repetitive checks allowed Wei Yi to escape. By move 77, with neither side able to break the deadlock, Giri was forced to settle for a frustrating draw via threefold repetition.

Other results saw India’s R. Praggnanandhaa draw against Andrey Esipenko, while Matthias Bluebaum held Fabiano Caruana to a draw.

Published on Apr 12, 2026

#FIDE #Candidates #Open #Section #Sindarov #plays #quick #draw #Nakamura #extend #lead #standings">FIDE Candidates 2026 Open Section: Sindarov plays a quick draw with Nakamura to extend lead in standings

It was in stark contrast to his fifth-round outing, when Hikaru Nakamura (5.5) took over an hour for a single move, as his Round 12 clash against Open section leader Javokhir Sindarov (9) ended in a draw in under 45 minutes on Sunday. Anish Giri (7) was also held by Wei Yi (5.5), allowing Sindarov to head into the rest day on Monday with a two-point lead.

Sindarov opened with 1. d4, and the game soon transitioned into a Catalan-style setup with g3 and Bg2. Nakamura chose a solid theoretical line, conceding central space but gaining the bishop pair.

Between moves nine and 26, the players exchanged queens and most of the minor pieces. By move 26 (Rd1 Rxd1), the position had been stripped of its major attacking potential. Sindarov held a slightly better king position, but Nakamura’s bishops provided sufficient compensation.

With little scope for progress, both players shuffled their pieces before agreeing to a draw.

On the other board, GM Anish saw a golden opportunity to climb the standings slip through his fingers. Dominating much of the mid-game, Giri steered the match into a highly favourable endgame where a full point seemed inevitable. His strategic pressure forced Wei Yi into a desperate defensive shell.

ALSO READ: Check out what happened in Round 12 as it happened in the live blog

However, the tide turned during the frantic final scramble. Under severe time pressure, Giri fumbled his advantage by failing to find the clinical killing blow.

Instead of tightening the noose, a series of repetitive checks allowed Wei Yi to escape. By move 77, with neither side able to break the deadlock, Giri was forced to settle for a frustrating draw via threefold repetition.

Other results saw India’s R. Praggnanandhaa draw against Andrey Esipenko, while Matthias Bluebaum held Fabiano Caruana to a draw.

Published on Apr 12, 2026

#FIDE #Candidates #Open #Section #Sindarov #plays #quick #draw #Nakamura #extend #lead #standings

It was in stark contrast to his fifth-round outing, when Hikaru Nakamura (5.5) took over…

Sports news

It was in stark contrast to his fifth-round outing, when Hikaru Nakamura took over an…

Praggnanandhaa vs Javokhir Sindarov Highlights: FIDE Chess Candidates Round 10 updates  Javokhir Sindarov defeated R Praggnanandhaa in Round 10, extending his lead at the top of the table.
                                                   | Photo Credit: YoavNis/FIDE
                                              
                  Javokhir Sindarov defeated R Praggnanandhaa in Round 10, extending his lead at the top of the table.
                                                   | Photo Credit: YoavNis/FIDE
                                            #Praggnanandhaa #Javokhir #Sindarov #Highlights #FIDE #Chess #Candidates #updates

Welcome to Sportstar’s coverage of the twelfth round of the FIDE Candidates 2026 tournament happening in Cyprus on Saturday.

R Praggnanandhaa (Black) vs Andrey Esipenko (White) – R 12 Board

R Vaishali (White) vs Zhu Jiner (Black) – R 12 Board

Divya Deshmukh (White) vs Tan Zhongyi (Black) – R 12 Board

  • April 12, 2026 17:49

    Hikaru Nakamura records second-longest move in FIDE Candidates history

    Hikaru Nakamura records second-longest move in FIDE Candidates history during loss vs Javokhir Sindarov

    American GM Hikaru Nakamura spent over one hour to make a move during a FIDE Candidates 2026 match against Uzbekistan’s Javokhir Sindarov on Friday in Cyprus.

  • April 12, 2026 17:49

    Sindarov leads the open section

    Sindarov and Nakamura’s clash earlier in the tournament would be remembered for Nakamura taking more than an hour to make a move, a record in itself. It’d be interesting to see whether the Uzbekistan GM bags another victory that almost wins him the Candidates title or whether Nakamura pulls off an upset.

  • April 12, 2026 17:46

    Can Divya pick a win tonight

    Divya Deshmukh is placed seventh in the standings and will face Tan Zhongyi, against whom she had drawn earlier in the tournament. 


  • April 12, 2026 17:37

    Earlier in the tournament

    Zhu Jiner defeated Vaishali in Round five. Today, Vaishali will play with the White pieces, looking to consolidate her lead heading into the rest day tomorrow.

  • April 12, 2026 17:36

    Important match for Vaishali today

    R Vaishali leads the tournament with 7/11 points after a Round 11 victory over Aleksandra Goryachkina yesterday, holding a one-point advantage over the chasing pack, which includes today’s opponent, Zhu Jiner. 

  • April 12, 2026 17:34

    Women’s section pairings for today

    Anna Muzychuk — Aleksandra Goryachkina
    Vaishali Rameshbabu — Zhu Jiner
    Divya Deshmukh — Tan Zhongyi
    Bibisara Assaubayeva — Kateryna Lagno

  • April 12, 2026 17:34

    Open section pairings for Round 12 today

    Andrey Esipenko — Praggnanandhaa R
    Matthias Bluebaum — Fabiano Caruana
    Javokhir Sindarov — Hikaru Nakamura
    Wei Yi — Anish Giri

  • April 12, 2026 17:33

    It is Round 12 today

    Hello and welcome to Sportstar’s coverage of the FIDE Candidates 2026 taking place in Cyprus.

Published on Apr 12, 2026

#FIDE #Chess #Candidates #Live #12Vaishali #faces #Zhu #Jiner #key #clash #Divya #Praggnanandhaa #action #IST"> FIDE Chess Candidates 2026 Live, Round 12:Vaishali faces Zhu Jiner in key clash; Divya and Praggnanandhaa in action from 6:15 PM IST  
  FIDE Candidates 2026: Check out all live updates from Round 12 of the Candidates tournament happening in Cyprus on Sunday.
Updated : Apr 12, 2026 17:49 IST 
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            READ LATERWelcome to Sportstar’s coverage of the twelfth round of the FIDE Candidates 2026 tournament happening in Cyprus on Saturday.R Praggnanandhaa (Black) vs Andrey Esipenko (White) – R 12 BoardR Vaishali (White) vs Zhu Jiner (Black) – R 12 BoardDivya Deshmukh (White) vs Tan Zhongyi (Black) – R 12 BoardApril 12, 2026 17:49
				Hikaru Nakamura records second-longest move in FIDE Candidates history
			Hikaru Nakamura records second-longest move in FIDE Candidates history during loss vs Javokhir SindarovAmerican GM Hikaru Nakamura spent over one hour to make a move during a FIDE Candidates 2026 match against Uzbekistan’s Javokhir Sindarov on Friday in Cyprus.April 12, 2026 17:49
				Sindarov leads the open section
			Sindarov and Nakamura’s clash earlier in the tournament would be remembered for Nakamura taking more than an hour to make a move, a record in itself. It’d be interesting to see whether the Uzbekistan GM bags another victory that almost wins him the Candidates title or whether Nakamura pulls off an upset.April 12, 2026 17:46
				Can Divya pick a win tonight
			Divya Deshmukh is placed seventh in the standings and will face Tan Zhongyi, against whom she had drawn earlier in the tournament. April 12, 2026 17:37
				Earlier in the tournament
			Zhu Jiner defeated Vaishali in Round five. Today, Vaishali will play with the White pieces, looking to consolidate her lead heading into the rest day tomorrow.April 12, 2026 17:36
				Important match for Vaishali today 
			R Vaishali leads the tournament with 7/11 points after a Round 11 victory over Aleksandra Goryachkina yesterday, holding a one-point advantage over the chasing pack, which includes today’s opponent, Zhu Jiner. April 12, 2026 17:34
				Women’s section pairings for today
			Anna Muzychuk — Aleksandra GoryachkinaVaishali Rameshbabu — Zhu JinerDivya Deshmukh — Tan ZhongyiBibisara Assaubayeva — Kateryna LagnoApril 12, 2026 17:34
				Open section pairings for Round 12 today
			Andrey Esipenko — Praggnanandhaa RMatthias Bluebaum — Fabiano CaruanaJavokhir Sindarov — Hikaru NakamuraWei Yi — Anish GiriApril 12, 2026 17:33
				It is Round 12 today
			Hello and welcome to Sportstar’s coverage of the FIDE Candidates 2026 taking place in Cyprus.Published on Apr 12, 2026  #FIDE #Chess #Candidates #Live #12Vaishali #faces #Zhu #Jiner #key #clash #Divya #Praggnanandhaa #action #IST
Sports news

Praggnanandhaa vs Javokhir Sindarov Highlights: FIDE Chess Candidates Round 10 updates  Javokhir Sindarov defeated R Praggnanandhaa in Round 10, extending his lead at the top of the table.
                                                   | Photo Credit: YoavNis/FIDE
                                              
                  Javokhir Sindarov defeated R Praggnanandhaa in Round 10, extending his lead at the top of the table.
                                                   | Photo Credit: YoavNis/FIDE
                                            #Praggnanandhaa #Javokhir #Sindarov #Highlights #FIDE #Chess #Candidates #updates

Welcome to Sportstar’s coverage of the twelfth round of the FIDE Candidates 2026 tournament happening in Cyprus on Saturday.

R Praggnanandhaa (Black) vs Andrey Esipenko (White) – R 12 Board

R Vaishali (White) vs Zhu Jiner (Black) – R 12 Board

Divya Deshmukh (White) vs Tan Zhongyi (Black) – R 12 Board

  • April 12, 2026 17:49

    Hikaru Nakamura records second-longest move in FIDE Candidates history

    Hikaru Nakamura records second-longest move in FIDE Candidates history during loss vs Javokhir Sindarov

    American GM Hikaru Nakamura spent over one hour to make a move during a FIDE Candidates 2026 match against Uzbekistan’s Javokhir Sindarov on Friday in Cyprus.

  • April 12, 2026 17:49

    Sindarov leads the open section

    Sindarov and Nakamura’s clash earlier in the tournament would be remembered for Nakamura taking more than an hour to make a move, a record in itself. It’d be interesting to see whether the Uzbekistan GM bags another victory that almost wins him the Candidates title or whether Nakamura pulls off an upset.

  • April 12, 2026 17:46

    Can Divya pick a win tonight

    Divya Deshmukh is placed seventh in the standings and will face Tan Zhongyi, against whom she had drawn earlier in the tournament. 


  • April 12, 2026 17:37

    Earlier in the tournament

    Zhu Jiner defeated Vaishali in Round five. Today, Vaishali will play with the White pieces, looking to consolidate her lead heading into the rest day tomorrow.

  • April 12, 2026 17:36

    Important match for Vaishali today

    R Vaishali leads the tournament with 7/11 points after a Round 11 victory over Aleksandra Goryachkina yesterday, holding a one-point advantage over the chasing pack, which includes today’s opponent, Zhu Jiner. 

  • April 12, 2026 17:34

    Women’s section pairings for today

    Anna Muzychuk — Aleksandra Goryachkina
    Vaishali Rameshbabu — Zhu Jiner
    Divya Deshmukh — Tan Zhongyi
    Bibisara Assaubayeva — Kateryna Lagno

  • April 12, 2026 17:34

    Open section pairings for Round 12 today

    Andrey Esipenko — Praggnanandhaa R
    Matthias Bluebaum — Fabiano Caruana
    Javokhir Sindarov — Hikaru Nakamura
    Wei Yi — Anish Giri

  • April 12, 2026 17:33

    It is Round 12 today

    Hello and welcome to Sportstar’s coverage of the FIDE Candidates 2026 taking place in Cyprus.

Published on Apr 12, 2026

#FIDE #Chess #Candidates #Live #12Vaishali #faces #Zhu #Jiner #key #clash #Divya #Praggnanandhaa #action #IST">FIDE Chess Candidates 2026 Live, Round 12:Vaishali faces Zhu Jiner in key clash; Divya and Praggnanandhaa in action from 6:15 PM IST

FIDE Candidates 2026: Check out all live updates from Round 12 of the Candidates tournament happening in Cyprus on Sunday.

Updated : Apr 12, 2026 17:49 IST

Praggnanandhaa vs Javokhir Sindarov Highlights: FIDE Chess Candidates Round 10 updates  Javokhir Sindarov defeated R Praggnanandhaa in Round 10, extending his lead at the top of the table.
                                                   | Photo Credit: YoavNis/FIDE
                                              
                  Javokhir Sindarov defeated R Praggnanandhaa in Round 10, extending his lead at the top of the table.
                                                   | Photo Credit: YoavNis/FIDE
                                            #Praggnanandhaa #Javokhir #Sindarov #Highlights #FIDE #Chess #Candidates #updates

Welcome to Sportstar’s coverage of the twelfth round of the FIDE Candidates 2026 tournament happening in Cyprus on Saturday.

R Praggnanandhaa (Black) vs Andrey Esipenko (White) – R 12 Board

R Vaishali (White) vs Zhu Jiner (Black) – R 12 Board

Divya Deshmukh (White) vs Tan Zhongyi (Black) – R 12 Board

  • April 12, 2026 17:49

    Hikaru Nakamura records second-longest move in FIDE Candidates history

    Hikaru Nakamura records second-longest move in FIDE Candidates history during loss vs Javokhir Sindarov

    American GM Hikaru Nakamura spent over one hour to make a move during a FIDE Candidates 2026 match against Uzbekistan’s Javokhir Sindarov on Friday in Cyprus.

  • April 12, 2026 17:49

    Sindarov leads the open section

    Sindarov and Nakamura’s clash earlier in the tournament would be remembered for Nakamura taking more than an hour to make a move, a record in itself. It’d be interesting to see whether the Uzbekistan GM bags another victory that almost wins him the Candidates title or whether Nakamura pulls off an upset.

  • April 12, 2026 17:46

    Can Divya pick a win tonight

    Divya Deshmukh is placed seventh in the standings and will face Tan Zhongyi, against whom she had drawn earlier in the tournament. 


  • April 12, 2026 17:37

    Earlier in the tournament

    Zhu Jiner defeated Vaishali in Round five. Today, Vaishali will play with the White pieces, looking to consolidate her lead heading into the rest day tomorrow.

  • April 12, 2026 17:36

    Important match for Vaishali today

    R Vaishali leads the tournament with 7/11 points after a Round 11 victory over Aleksandra Goryachkina yesterday, holding a one-point advantage over the chasing pack, which includes today’s opponent, Zhu Jiner. 

  • April 12, 2026 17:34

    Women’s section pairings for today

    Anna Muzychuk — Aleksandra Goryachkina
    Vaishali Rameshbabu — Zhu Jiner
    Divya Deshmukh — Tan Zhongyi
    Bibisara Assaubayeva — Kateryna Lagno

  • April 12, 2026 17:34

    Open section pairings for Round 12 today

    Andrey Esipenko — Praggnanandhaa R
    Matthias Bluebaum — Fabiano Caruana
    Javokhir Sindarov — Hikaru Nakamura
    Wei Yi — Anish Giri

  • April 12, 2026 17:33

    It is Round 12 today

    Hello and welcome to Sportstar’s coverage of the FIDE Candidates 2026 taking place in Cyprus.

Published on Apr 12, 2026

#FIDE #Chess #Candidates #Live #12Vaishali #faces #Zhu #Jiner #key #clash #Divya #Praggnanandhaa #action #IST

FIDE Candidates 2026: Check out all live updates from Round 12 of the Candidates tournament…

Highlight from Round 11 of FIDE Candidates as it happened

Playing with the Black pieces, Divya neutralised Zhu’s bishop activity early in the game and traded queens at the right moment with 22. Ne8 followed by 23. Qxd2, reducing attacking chances and steering the game towards a draw.

Her pieces remained well coordinated, and the central break with 38. d5 and 39. Rxd5 ensured complete balance. Divya countered Zhu’s early initiative with measured play to secure the draw.

Divya now has five points, two behind leader Vaishali.

Anna Muzychuk is joint-second on the table with 6 points after a draw against Lagno Kateryna

Published on Apr 11, 2026

#FIDE #Candidates #Vaishali #capitalises #Goryachkinas #error #extend #lead #Divya #holds #Zhu"> FIDE Candidates 2026: Vaishali capitalises on Goryachkina’s error to extend lead; Divya holds Zhu  India’s Grandmaster (GM) R Vaishali put herself in the driver’s seat to claim the FIDE Candidates title in the women’s section after she beat Russia’s Aleksandra Goryachkina in Round 11 on Saturday.Playing with black pieces, Vaishali kept the tie on balance into the middle game before capitalising on a blunder from her opponent (30. bishop c4) to take control of the game.The win consolidated Vaishali’s position atop the standings as she moved to seven points.GM Divya Deshmukh produced a solid, controlled performance against second-placed Zhu Jiner (6 points) to hold the Chinese GM to a draw, a result that helps Vaishali head into Round 12 with a clear one-point lead.ALSO READ: Highlight from Round 11 of FIDE Candidates as it happenedPlaying with the Black pieces, Divya neutralised Zhu’s bishop activity early in the game and traded queens at the right moment with 22. Ne8 followed by 23. Qxd2, reducing attacking chances and steering the game towards a draw.Her pieces remained well coordinated, and the central break with 38. d5 and 39. Rxd5 ensured complete balance. Divya countered Zhu’s early initiative with measured play to secure the draw.Divya now has five points, two behind leader Vaishali.Anna Muzychuk is joint-second on the table with 6 points after a draw against Lagno KaterynaPublished on Apr 11, 2026  #FIDE #Candidates #Vaishali #capitalises #Goryachkinas #error #extend #lead #Divya #holds #Zhu
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Highlight from Round 11 of FIDE Candidates as it happened

Playing with the Black pieces, Divya neutralised Zhu’s bishop activity early in the game and traded queens at the right moment with 22. Ne8 followed by 23. Qxd2, reducing attacking chances and steering the game towards a draw.

Her pieces remained well coordinated, and the central break with 38. d5 and 39. Rxd5 ensured complete balance. Divya countered Zhu’s early initiative with measured play to secure the draw.

Divya now has five points, two behind leader Vaishali.

Anna Muzychuk is joint-second on the table with 6 points after a draw against Lagno Kateryna

Published on Apr 11, 2026

#FIDE #Candidates #Vaishali #capitalises #Goryachkinas #error #extend #lead #Divya #holds #Zhu">FIDE Candidates 2026: Vaishali capitalises on Goryachkina’s error to extend lead; Divya holds Zhu

India’s Grandmaster (GM) R Vaishali put herself in the driver’s seat to claim the FIDE Candidates title in the women’s section after she beat Russia’s Aleksandra Goryachkina in Round 11 on Saturday.

Playing with black pieces, Vaishali kept the tie on balance into the middle game before capitalising on a blunder from her opponent (30. bishop c4) to take control of the game.

The win consolidated Vaishali’s position atop the standings as she moved to seven points.

GM Divya Deshmukh produced a solid, controlled performance against second-placed Zhu Jiner (6 points) to hold the Chinese GM to a draw, a result that helps Vaishali head into Round 12 with a clear one-point lead.

ALSO READ: Highlight from Round 11 of FIDE Candidates as it happened

Playing with the Black pieces, Divya neutralised Zhu’s bishop activity early in the game and traded queens at the right moment with 22. Ne8 followed by 23. Qxd2, reducing attacking chances and steering the game towards a draw.

Her pieces remained well coordinated, and the central break with 38. d5 and 39. Rxd5 ensured complete balance. Divya countered Zhu’s early initiative with measured play to secure the draw.

Divya now has five points, two behind leader Vaishali.

Anna Muzychuk is joint-second on the table with 6 points after a draw against Lagno Kateryna

Published on Apr 11, 2026

#FIDE #Candidates #Vaishali #capitalises #Goryachkinas #error #extend #lead #Divya #holds #Zhu

India’s Grandmaster (GM) R Vaishali put herself in the driver’s seat to claim the FIDE…

Praggnanandhaa vs Javokhir Sindarov Highlights: FIDE Chess Candidates Round 10 updates  Javokhir Sindarov defeated R Praggnanandhaa in Round 10, extending his lead at the top of the table.
                                                   | Photo Credit: YoavNis/FIDE
                                              
                  Javokhir Sindarov defeated R Praggnanandhaa in Round 10, extending his lead at the top of the table.
                                                   | Photo Credit: YoavNis/FIDE
                                            #Praggnanandhaa #Javokhir #Sindarov #Highlights #FIDE #Chess #Candidates #updates

Welcome to Sportstar’s coverage of the eleventh round of the FIDE Candidates 2026 tournament happening in Cyprus on Saturday.

R Praggnanandhaa (White) vs Matthias Bluebaum (Black) – R 11 Board

R Vaishali (Black) vs Aleksandra Goryachkina (White) – R 11 Board

Divya Deshmukh (Black) vs Zhu Jiner (White) – R 11 Board

  • April 11, 2026 17:55

    Enjoy chess, and try to play a lot: Caruana’s message to 8-year-olds picking up Chess – Watch

  • April 11, 2026 17:48

    Sindarov first played Pragg when he was 7 years old. Listen below

  • April 11, 2026 17:46

    Can Sindarov hold on to go all the way

    Sindarov currently holds a good two-pointlead over the rest of the field. Praggnanandhaa is 4 points behind the leader with only four rounds remaining.

  • April 11, 2026 17:43

    Praggnanandhaa vs Matthias Bluebaum tonight

    R Praggnanandhaa enters Round 11 after a defeat to open-section leader Javokhir Sindarov. Praggnanandhaa opened well, but a mid-game error under pressure led to the Indian’s resignation.

  • April 11, 2026 17:40

    Tough contest awaits Divya Deshmukh

    Divya Deshmukh’s campaign has been hindered in the last two rounds following losses to R Vaishali in Round 9 and to Aleksandra Goryachkina in Round 10. She is playing Zhu Jiner tonight, against whom she lost in Round 5 earlier.

  • April 11, 2026 17:37

    Women’s section as it stands

    Vaishali is closely followed by Anna Muzychuk. Zhu Jiner is in second place with 5.5 points, and Goryachkina sits third with 5 points.

  • April 11, 2026 17:35

    It is Vaishali vs Goryachkina today

    R Vaishali enters the Round 11 contest tonight as the sole leader with 6 points. She will play Aleksandra Goryachkina with the black pieces today.

  • April 11, 2026 17:32

    Women section pairings for Round 11 today

    Kateryna Lagno — Anna Muzychuk
    Tan Zhongyi — Bibisara Assaubayeva
    Zhu Jiner — Divya Deshmukh
    Aleksandra Goryachkina — Vaishali Rameshbabu

  • April 11, 2026 17:32

    Open section pairings for Round 11 today

    Anish Giri — Andrey Esipenko
    Hikaru Nakamura — Wei Yi
    Fabiano Caruana — Javokhir Sindarov
    Praggnanandhaa R — Matthias Bluebaum

  • April 11, 2026 17:31

    We are nearing the final end of the tournament

    Hello and welcome to Sportstar’s coverage of the FIDE Candidates 2026 taking place in Cyprus. 

Published on Apr 11, 2026

#FIDE #Chess #Candidates #Live #Vaishali #aims #lead #intact #Divya #chases #Praggnanandhaa #action #IST"> FIDE Chess Candidates 2026 Live, Round 12:Vaishali faces Zhu Jiner in key clash; Divya and Praggnanandhaa in action from 6:15 PM IST  
  FIDE Candidates 2026: Check out all live updates from Round 12 of the Candidates tournament happening in Cyprus on Sunday.
Updated : Apr 12, 2026 17:49 IST 
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            READ LATERWelcome to Sportstar’s coverage of the twelfth round of the FIDE Candidates 2026 tournament happening in Cyprus on Saturday.R Praggnanandhaa (Black) vs Andrey Esipenko (White) – R 12 BoardR Vaishali (White) vs Zhu Jiner (Black) – R 12 BoardDivya Deshmukh (White) vs Tan Zhongyi (Black) – R 12 BoardApril 12, 2026 17:49
				Hikaru Nakamura records second-longest move in FIDE Candidates history
			Hikaru Nakamura records second-longest move in FIDE Candidates history during loss vs Javokhir SindarovAmerican GM Hikaru Nakamura spent over one hour to make a move during a FIDE Candidates 2026 match against Uzbekistan’s Javokhir Sindarov on Friday in Cyprus.April 12, 2026 17:49
				Sindarov leads the open section
			Sindarov and Nakamura’s clash earlier in the tournament would be remembered for Nakamura taking more than an hour to make a move, a record in itself. It’d be interesting to see whether the Uzbekistan GM bags another victory that almost wins him the Candidates title or whether Nakamura pulls off an upset.April 12, 2026 17:46
				Can Divya pick a win tonight
			Divya Deshmukh is placed seventh in the standings and will face Tan Zhongyi, against whom she had drawn earlier in the tournament. April 12, 2026 17:37
				Earlier in the tournament
			Zhu Jiner defeated Vaishali in Round five. Today, Vaishali will play with the White pieces, looking to consolidate her lead heading into the rest day tomorrow.April 12, 2026 17:36
				Important match for Vaishali today 
			R Vaishali leads the tournament with 7/11 points after a Round 11 victory over Aleksandra Goryachkina yesterday, holding a one-point advantage over the chasing pack, which includes today’s opponent, Zhu Jiner. April 12, 2026 17:34
				Women’s section pairings for today
			Anna Muzychuk — Aleksandra GoryachkinaVaishali Rameshbabu — Zhu JinerDivya Deshmukh — Tan ZhongyiBibisara Assaubayeva — Kateryna LagnoApril 12, 2026 17:34
				Open section pairings for Round 12 today
			Andrey Esipenko — Praggnanandhaa RMatthias Bluebaum — Fabiano CaruanaJavokhir Sindarov — Hikaru NakamuraWei Yi — Anish GiriApril 12, 2026 17:33
				It is Round 12 today
			Hello and welcome to Sportstar’s coverage of the FIDE Candidates 2026 taking place in Cyprus.Published on Apr 12, 2026  #FIDE #Chess #Candidates #Live #12Vaishali #faces #Zhu #Jiner #key #clash #Divya #Praggnanandhaa #action #IST
Sports news

Praggnanandhaa vs Javokhir Sindarov Highlights: FIDE Chess Candidates Round 10 updates  Javokhir Sindarov defeated R Praggnanandhaa in Round 10, extending his lead at the top of the table.
                                                   | Photo Credit: YoavNis/FIDE
                                              
                  Javokhir Sindarov defeated R Praggnanandhaa in Round 10, extending his lead at the top of the table.
                                                   | Photo Credit: YoavNis/FIDE
                                            #Praggnanandhaa #Javokhir #Sindarov #Highlights #FIDE #Chess #Candidates #updates

Welcome to Sportstar’s coverage of the eleventh round of the FIDE Candidates 2026 tournament happening in Cyprus on Saturday.

R Praggnanandhaa (White) vs Matthias Bluebaum (Black) – R 11 Board

R Vaishali (Black) vs Aleksandra Goryachkina (White) – R 11 Board

Divya Deshmukh (Black) vs Zhu Jiner (White) – R 11 Board

  • April 11, 2026 17:55

    Enjoy chess, and try to play a lot: Caruana’s message to 8-year-olds picking up Chess – Watch

  • April 11, 2026 17:48

    Sindarov first played Pragg when he was 7 years old. Listen below

  • April 11, 2026 17:46

    Can Sindarov hold on to go all the way

    Sindarov currently holds a good two-pointlead over the rest of the field. Praggnanandhaa is 4 points behind the leader with only four rounds remaining.

  • April 11, 2026 17:43

    Praggnanandhaa vs Matthias Bluebaum tonight

    R Praggnanandhaa enters Round 11 after a defeat to open-section leader Javokhir Sindarov. Praggnanandhaa opened well, but a mid-game error under pressure led to the Indian’s resignation.

  • April 11, 2026 17:40

    Tough contest awaits Divya Deshmukh

    Divya Deshmukh’s campaign has been hindered in the last two rounds following losses to R Vaishali in Round 9 and to Aleksandra Goryachkina in Round 10. She is playing Zhu Jiner tonight, against whom she lost in Round 5 earlier.

  • April 11, 2026 17:37

    Women’s section as it stands

    Vaishali is closely followed by Anna Muzychuk. Zhu Jiner is in second place with 5.5 points, and Goryachkina sits third with 5 points.

  • April 11, 2026 17:35

    It is Vaishali vs Goryachkina today

    R Vaishali enters the Round 11 contest tonight as the sole leader with 6 points. She will play Aleksandra Goryachkina with the black pieces today.

  • April 11, 2026 17:32

    Women section pairings for Round 11 today

    Kateryna Lagno — Anna Muzychuk
    Tan Zhongyi — Bibisara Assaubayeva
    Zhu Jiner — Divya Deshmukh
    Aleksandra Goryachkina — Vaishali Rameshbabu

  • April 11, 2026 17:32

    Open section pairings for Round 11 today

    Anish Giri — Andrey Esipenko
    Hikaru Nakamura — Wei Yi
    Fabiano Caruana — Javokhir Sindarov
    Praggnanandhaa R — Matthias Bluebaum

  • April 11, 2026 17:31

    We are nearing the final end of the tournament

    Hello and welcome to Sportstar’s coverage of the FIDE Candidates 2026 taking place in Cyprus. 

Published on Apr 11, 2026

#FIDE #Chess #Candidates #Live #Vaishali #aims #lead #intact #Divya #chases #Praggnanandhaa #action #IST">FIDE Chess Candidates 2026 Live, Round 11: Vaishali aims to keep lead intact as Divya chases, Praggnanandhaa in action from 6:15 PM IST

FIDE Candidates 2026: Check out all Live updates from Round 11 of the Candidates tournament happening in Cyprus on Saturday.

Updated : Apr 11, 2026 17:55 IST

Praggnanandhaa vs Javokhir Sindarov Highlights: FIDE Chess Candidates Round 10 updates  Javokhir Sindarov defeated R Praggnanandhaa in Round 10, extending his lead at the top of the table.
                                                   | Photo Credit: YoavNis/FIDE
                                              
                  Javokhir Sindarov defeated R Praggnanandhaa in Round 10, extending his lead at the top of the table.
                                                   | Photo Credit: YoavNis/FIDE
                                            #Praggnanandhaa #Javokhir #Sindarov #Highlights #FIDE #Chess #Candidates #updates

Welcome to Sportstar’s coverage of the eleventh round of the FIDE Candidates 2026 tournament happening in Cyprus on Saturday.

R Praggnanandhaa (White) vs Matthias Bluebaum (Black) – R 11 Board

R Vaishali (Black) vs Aleksandra Goryachkina (White) – R 11 Board

Divya Deshmukh (Black) vs Zhu Jiner (White) – R 11 Board

  • April 11, 2026 17:55

    Enjoy chess, and try to play a lot: Caruana’s message to 8-year-olds picking up Chess – Watch

  • April 11, 2026 17:48

    Sindarov first played Pragg when he was 7 years old. Listen below

  • April 11, 2026 17:46

    Can Sindarov hold on to go all the way

    Sindarov currently holds a good two-pointlead over the rest of the field. Praggnanandhaa is 4 points behind the leader with only four rounds remaining.

  • April 11, 2026 17:43

    Praggnanandhaa vs Matthias Bluebaum tonight

    R Praggnanandhaa enters Round 11 after a defeat to open-section leader Javokhir Sindarov. Praggnanandhaa opened well, but a mid-game error under pressure led to the Indian’s resignation.

  • April 11, 2026 17:40

    Tough contest awaits Divya Deshmukh

    Divya Deshmukh’s campaign has been hindered in the last two rounds following losses to R Vaishali in Round 9 and to Aleksandra Goryachkina in Round 10. She is playing Zhu Jiner tonight, against whom she lost in Round 5 earlier.

  • April 11, 2026 17:37

    Women’s section as it stands

    Vaishali is closely followed by Anna Muzychuk. Zhu Jiner is in second place with 5.5 points, and Goryachkina sits third with 5 points.

  • April 11, 2026 17:35

    It is Vaishali vs Goryachkina today

    R Vaishali enters the Round 11 contest tonight as the sole leader with 6 points. She will play Aleksandra Goryachkina with the black pieces today.

  • April 11, 2026 17:32

    Women section pairings for Round 11 today

    Kateryna Lagno — Anna Muzychuk
    Tan Zhongyi — Bibisara Assaubayeva
    Zhu Jiner — Divya Deshmukh
    Aleksandra Goryachkina — Vaishali Rameshbabu

  • April 11, 2026 17:32

    Open section pairings for Round 11 today

    Anish Giri — Andrey Esipenko
    Hikaru Nakamura — Wei Yi
    Fabiano Caruana — Javokhir Sindarov
    Praggnanandhaa R — Matthias Bluebaum

  • April 11, 2026 17:31

    We are nearing the final end of the tournament

    Hello and welcome to Sportstar’s coverage of the FIDE Candidates 2026 taking place in Cyprus. 

Published on Apr 11, 2026

#FIDE #Chess #Candidates #Live #Vaishali #aims #lead #intact #Divya #chases #Praggnanandhaa #action #IST

FIDE Candidates 2026: Check out all Live updates from Round 11 of the Candidates tournament…

Sports news

The Indian contingent has had a mixed bag of results in the Round 10 of…

Sports news

Javokhir Sindarov defeated R Praggnanandhaa in Round 10, extending his lead at the top of…