Uzbek grandmaster Javokhir Sindarov has secured a place in the 2026 FIDE Candidates Tournament after winning World Cup semi-final tie-break against Nodirbek Yakubboyev. Chessdom reported the result following two classical draws that pushed the match into rapid play.
Sindarov created sustained pressure with the black pieces in the decisive game which forced Yakubboyev into severe time trouble. He then steered a demanding rook endgame to victory to claim his spot in the elite event.
The 2026 Candidates will be held in Cyprus at the Cap St Georges Hotel & Resort from March 25 to May 1 and will decide the challenger to reigning world champion D Gukesh.
The field will feature World Cup medallists Grand Swiss leaders FIDE Circuit winners and the player with the highest average rating between August 2025 and January 2026.
