Viswanathan Anand added to his opinion on the FIDE World Championship 2026 in an interview with Chess.com India. Anand believes that the match odds are 50-50. Vishy notes that there are details in the match more important than percentage predictions.

Viswanathan Anand

Viswanathan Anand

15th World Champion

“[Question: What are your predictions on who could win? And in terms of Gukesh, what percentage chances would you give him of winning the World Championship match?]

I think they’re both of comparable strength. Not comparable form right now, but comparable strength. So, percentage is probably going to be just very close. I think roughly 50/50.

But these things don’t matter. I’m much more curious to see who will get their first win. Who is putting pressure right away, who’s able to get in more surprises. Those tell me more.

I think Gukesh has the obligation to turn up in the best shape that he can and just play confidently. He is, after all, a spectacularly talented player. And he should remember that.

Same with Sindarov. We have seen just how strong he is this year. I think the main obligation for both is to turn up with confidence and keep that.”

Viswanathan Anand believes that the form of Gukesh Dommaraju and Javokhir Sindarov can change at any moment. Anand noted that there is nothing special in Gukesh’s recent performance.

The FIDE World Championship 2026 is the crowning match to determine the World Champion. Match features defending Champion Gukesh Dommaraju and Uzbek GM Javokhir Sindarov, the winner of the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026. The match will take place in Geneva, Switzerland from November 25 to December 15.

Credit: Michal Walusza / FIDE