India’s rising chess star Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa has officially punched his ticket to the 2026 Candidates Tournament, cementing his status as one of the world’s brightest young talents. The 20-year-old grandmaster achieved this milestone after a thrilling performance at the FIDE Circuit 2025, culminating in a tense finish at the London Chess Classic Open.
Praggnanandhaa, who entered the tournament as a late entrant, showcased nerves of steel by scoring 7/9 points, enough to secure the 115.17 circuit points needed to qualify for the elite eight-player Candidates Tournament. His performance made him the only male Indian player to qualify, highlighting both his consistency and composure under pressure.
The Candidates Tournament is a pivotal stepping stone in the world of chess, determining who will challenge the reigning World Champion for the title. At just 20 years old, Praggnanandhaa has already built an impressive track record, with top finishes in several international tournaments in 2025. His qualification signals a new era for Indian chess, with a young prodigy ready to compete at the highest levels.
For fans in India and around the world, Praggnanandhaa’s achievement is a moment of pride — a testament to talent, hard work, and unwavering focus. As he prepares for the Candidates in 2026, chess enthusiasts will be eagerly watching every move of this rising star.
