Samarkand (Uzbekistan), Sept 2 (PTI) – India's top-ranked Grandmaster, R Praggnanandhaa, is poised to secure a spot in the Candidates Tournament 2026 by conquering a formidable lineup in the FIDE Grand Swiss starting here on Wednesday.
The 11-round competition boasts a prize fund of USD 625,000 in the open category and USD 230,000 for the women's division, with the leading two performers in each category advancing to the Candidates Tournament.
Praggnanandhaa is well-positioned to claim his Candidates spot, courtesy of a commanding lead in the performance category qualifier for 2025.
The Candidates features eight competitors; one qualifies based on FIDE circuit performances in 2024 and 2025, two from the Grand Swiss, three from the World Cup set in Goa later this year, and two through the highest six-month rating average.
Fabiano Caruana from the US has already secured his place thanks to an outstanding 2024 campaign. Praggnanandhaa maintains a significant points lead over his closest adversaries this year, barring any unforeseen downturn.
The participation of World Champion D Gukesh doesn't hinder Praggnanandhaa’s chances.
Gukesh's participation in the Grand Swiss as World Champion is a remarkable occurrence, showcasing his dedication to excelling in major events.
Arjun Erigaisi would be closer to a Candidates’ slot if not for Praggnanandhaa's standout 2025 performance, though he still has opportunities to establish himself as a contender.
Vidit Gujrathi, a previous Candidates qualifier by winning the Grand Swiss in 2023, aims to reclaim top form following subpar performances.
Other Indian talents in the open category include P Harikrishna, Nihal Sarin, and Pranav Venkatesh, all looking to deliver strong showings in this fiercely contested tournament.
Harikrishna offers experience, Nihal provides dynamism, and world junior champion Pranav brings recent wins, but success will depend on striking form at the right moment.
Divya Deshmukh, fresh off a women's World Cup victory, moves to the open section with a wild card entry.
Both Divya and Koneru Humpy have secured berths to the women's Candidates following their stellar World Cup performances, though Humpy opts out of Grand Swiss as it doesn’t impact her position.
In the women’s category, India’s challenge is led by D Harika, supported by defending champion R Vaishali and Vantika Agrawal.
The opening ceremony is slated for Wednesday, with the draw of lots and the initial round taking place on Thursday.
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