Tata Steel Chess: D Gukesh’s first test as World Champion

Gukesh, who skipped World Rapid and Blitz, will face his first major challenge as world champion in the prestigious Tata Steel Chess tournament

For the first time, five Indians, including Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa, Arjun Erigaisi, P Harikrishna, and Leon Mendonca, will compete in the event

Dating back to 1938, Tata Steel Chess remains one of the longest-running elite chess tournaments in the world, attracting top talents

P Harikrishna replaces Vidit Gujrathi, joining the elite roster after his key role in Gukesh’s World Championship triumph

Leon Mendonca steps into elite chess, earning his spot after a stunning performance in the Tata Steel Challengers section last year

Praggnanandhaa, with his massive fan following, joins the fray, bringing excitement and momentum to his Tata Steel Chess campaign

World No. 4 Arjun Erigaisi, now a 2800+ ELO player, enters the tournament as the highest-rated Indian, aiming to make his mark

World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen skips the tournament, leaving the field open for Fabiano Caruana, Wei Yi, and other top contenders