Mumbai, June 8: Indian Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa has made history by becoming the first Indian to win the prestigious Norway Chess 2026 title. The 20-year-old achieved this remarkable feat on June 6, defeating Germany’s Vincent Keymer. Despite being third with 15 points on the final day, Praggnanandhaa’s performance secured him the championship.
The Norway Chess tournament, held from May 25 to June 5, 2026, in Oslo, is renowned as one of the most prestigious chess events globally. Praggnanandhaa’s victory adds to his impressive record, as he previously won the World Youth Chess Championship in 2013 and became the youngest International Master at the age of 10 in 2016.
In 2022, he represented India at the 44th Chess Olympiad, where he won a bronze medal and notably defeated World Champion Magnus Carlsen in a rapid format match. His recent win qualifies him for the Candidates Tournament 2026, making him the first Indian to achieve this through the FIDE circuit.
Praggnanandhaa’s achievements continue to inspire young chess players across the nation, solidifying his status as one of India’s most promising talents in the sport.