FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026 concludes in Paphos

The FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026 concluded on April 16 with a ceremony at the Cap St Georges Hotel & Resort in Pegeia, Paphos. Javokhir Sindarov of Uzbekistan and Vaishali Rameshbabu of India were crowned winners, earning the right to challenge for the world title. The event featured a video message from Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides, who praised the hosting of the international competition. FIDE Deputy President Viswanathan Anand attended, noting the rise of a new generation of players. Sources provided conflicting reports regarding Sindarov's nationality, with some identifying him as Uzbek and others as Pakistani, citing congratulatory messages from the respective leaders of those nations. Separately, the 4th International Paphos Chess Tournament began on April 13, featuring 185 participants from 27 countries, and is held independently in different municipal venues. The latter event involves 45 titled players and is organized by the Paphos Municipality and the Paphos Chess Club.