Magnus Carlsen commented on his loss to French GM Alireza Firouzja in the first round of Norway Chess 2026. Magnus says that he made mistakes in the game, and notes that Alireza deserved the victory.

Magnus Carlsen

Magnus Carlsen

World's No. 1

“It was just chaos!

I made a few bad moves and played too slowly. I misjudged a few things. At the end, I thought I’d prevent his plan. I felt I was actually quite comfortable… It was very disappointing to then lose in just a couple of moves.

But Alireza’s victory was fully deserved. There were many things I overlooked.”

The Norway Chess 2026 takes place from May 25 to June 5, at the Deichman Bjorvika public library, Oslo. Alireza Firouzja leads the tournament, and Magnus Carlsen is in last place after one round.

Credit: Michal Walusza / Norway Chess