Overview
- Speaking in Mumbai, the only male Indian qualified for the 2026 Candidates reaffirmed that the classical world championship remains the top goal.
- FIDE has approved the Chess World Championship Tour under a long-term agreement with Norway Chess, with a pilot planned for next year and annual runs from 2027.
- The new series will crown a champion across Fast Classic, Rapid and Blitz, while the traditional title continues in the classical format.
- Praggnanandhaa said the Tour winner will qualify as a Candidate, framing the series as a feeder to the championship cycle rather than a rival.
- He acknowledged he has not reviewed the Tour regulations and said frequent format shifts are tough to adapt to, though he welcomed expanded playing and earning opportunities.