Monthly Archives: March 2026

Candidates R1: Head-to-head stats

Head-to-head records between the participants of the Candidates Tournaments provide useful context for each pairing. Drawing on data compiled via Mega Database 2026, the key statistics from past encounters highlight imbalances and trends. While such figures are not decisive, they offer an additional perspective on how rivalries have developed before a tournament that will determine […]

Candidates Tournaments: A ceremony worthy of champions

The Candidates Tournaments opened with a ceremonial evening combining formal addresses, player introductions and cultural performances, setting the stage for the competitions ahead. Held in Cyprus, the event brought together all sixteen contenders from the open and women’s sections, alongside officials and guests. With the opening ceremony concluded, attention now turns to the start of […]

Svitlana’s Smart Moves – The Women’s Candidates: Who will win?

In this episode of Svitlana’s Smart Moves, Svitlana continues her Candidates series by presenting one key tactical moment from each player in the Women’s Candidates, while Arne tries to solve them along the way. The positions showcase a wide range of attacking and endgame ideas, from classic double-bishop sacrifices to precise defensive resources and beautiful […]

Court of Arbitration for Sport finds FIDE sanctions insufficient, imposes new measures on Russian Federation

The Court of Arbitration for Sport has ruled in favour of Ukraine in its case against the Chess Federation of Russia, concluding that earlier sanctions imposed by FIDE were insufficient. The decision requires the Russian Federation to cease organising chess activities in several annexed regions within 90 days or face suspension from international competition. The […]

Exploring the Opening Encyclopaedia 2026: A video introduction

An overview of the Opening Encyclopaedia 2026 highlights its role as a structured resource for studying modern opening theory. Combining articles, annotated games and video content, it offers both broad coverage and practical guidance. With contributions from authors such as Daniel King and Dorian Rogozenco, the material spans introductory tutorials and detailed analysis, alongside an […]

Exhibit at the World Chess Hall of Fame: “Chess Variants: Transforming Tradition”

The exhibition “Chess Variants: Transforming Tradition” explores the evolution of chess across cultures, from its early forms in Asia to modern reinterpretations of the game. Hosted by the World Chess Hall of Fame, it brings together historical artefacts, rare sets and interactive displays, alongside examples of variants such as Shogi and Xiangqi. The show highlights […]

Martirosyan edges 16-year-old Uskov to take Agzamov Memorial title

Haik Martirosyan won the 19th Agzamov Memorial in Tashkent on tiebreak after finishing level on 7½/9 with 16-year-old Artem Uskov. The two co-leaders drew their direct encounter in round seven, before Martirosyan moved ahead with a win in round eight. Uskov’s final-round victory over Abhimanyu Puranik allowed him to catch the Armenian GM, but not […]