Sindarov wins Candidates, sets up World C’ship clash with D Gukesh

Javokhir Sindarov clinched the FIDE Candidates 2026 title with a round to spare after an unbeaten run, sealing qualification for the World Championship with a draw against Anish Giri. The Uzbek GM showed consistency throughout, starting with a win over Andrey Esipenko and maintaining control with key draws. He will now face reigning champion D Gukesh for the title.