FIDE Candidates 2026 Open Section: Sindarov Seals Title with a Round to Spare; Extends Unbeaten Run to 50 Games Javokhir Sindarov’s remarkable journey at the FIDE Candidates 2026 Open Section reached its conclusion on April 14, 2026, as he secured the title with a draw against Anish Giri in Round 13. The Uzbek grandmaster, who had already extended his unbeaten streak to 50 games, clinched the tournament with a two-point lead, leaving Giri unable to close the gap. The result ensured Sindarov a place in the FIDE World Championship match against D. Gukesh later in the year. Heading into the final round, Sindarov held a two-point advantage over Giri, who needed a decisive victory to force the title race into the final day. However, the draw in Round 13 proved sufficient for Sindarov to claim the title, as the gap could not be bridged in the remaining games. The match against Giri, which began with 1. e4 by the Dutch player, saw Sindarov adopt a solid positional approach. By move 15, the game had transitioned into a queenless middlegame, a scenario that favored Sindarov’s risk-averse strategy. Giri attempted to exert pressure along the d-file, but Sindarov’s resolute defense, marked by moves such as Be6 and Re6, neutralized White’s initiatives. The game eventually reached a rook and bishop endgame, where neither side could find a decisive advantage. After repeated moves, the players agreed to a draw by threefold repetition, a decision that solidified Sindarov’s position as the tournament winner. Sindarov’s achievement marks a significant milestone in his career, as he becomes the first player to remain unbeaten throughout the entire Candidates tournament.#d_gukesh #javokhir_sindarov #anish_giri #fide_candidates_2026_open_section #fide_world_championship
