Sindarov and Assaubayeva top updated FIDE Circuit chess rankings
Grandmasters Javokhir Sindarov of Uzbekistan and Bibisara Assaubayeva of Kazakhstan have claimed the top positions in the FIDE Circuit 2026-2027 global chess rankings.
The International Chess Federation recently confirmed the updated standings showcasing Central Asian dominance in the early stages of the current cycle. Sindarov leads the open tournament category with 93.89 accumulated points. He secured the premier spot by leapfrogging his compatriot Nodirbek Abdusattorov after achieving decisive victories in both rapid and blitz events at the Naroditsky Memorial in Charlotte earlier this month.
Men’s rankings
The competition remains tight at the top of the leaderboard. American grandmaster Wesley So trails Sindarov closely in second place. So boosted his standing significantly after winning the prestigious Sinquefield Cup for the third time on August 20. Meanwhile Abdusattorov has slipped to third overall with 65.64 points but remains a formidable contender in the circuit.
Women’s rankings
In the women’s division Assaubayeva maintains her stronghold on the FIDE Women’s Circuit 2026-2027. The Kazakh star captured the leading position following a series of strong tournament performances in May and has successfully defended her ranking throughout the summer schedule.
The FIDE Circuit functions as a unified leaderboard tracking results across elite international chess tournaments. Maintaining a high rank is critical for professional players as the 2026-2027 standings provide a direct qualification pathway to the highly anticipated Candidates Tournament.
The pair of leaders are often seen together on Assaubayeva’s social media updates. Both have denied dating rumours.
