Former World Champion Garry Kasparov discussed the possible outcome of the 2026 World Championship match in an interview with the Saint Louis Chess Club. Kasparov considers Javokhir Sindarov the favorite and speculates on the possibility of a Sindarov vs. Carlsen match.

Garry Kasparov

Garry Kasparov

12th World Champion

“I must say, it’s hard to impress me, but the way he played — his timing, the quality of his moves, his ability to withstand pressure and increase the pressure on his opponents — was exceptional.

Compared to Gukesh, Sindarov looks like the favorite. But this match is a special format. Gukesh is very mentally stable, able to defend any position and find resources even in the worst situations.

Gukesh has match experience, but for Sindarov, this will be his first serious match. Yes, it’s relatively short — 14 games, we’ve played longer games before — but it will still be very interesting.

The current World Champion is 19. The challenger is only 20. But I still want to emphasize that the strongest chess player is 35. With all due respect. I would love to see Sindarov playing Magnus, because Carlsen is still around. Maybe if Sindarov beats Gukesh, then there will be a chance to bring Magnus back and see how things go.”

Uzbek GM Javokhir Sindarov won the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026 one round ahead and became a candidate for the World Championship title. He will face reigning World Champion Gukesh Dommaraju at the end of 2026.

Credit: Lennart Ootes