Czech GM David Navara shared his thoughts on the participants of the Prague International Chess Festival 2026 in an interview with the organizers. Navara notes the significance of the opportunity to play against World Champion Gukesh Dommaraju, and describes all tournament players as very strong.

David Navara

David Navara

Czech’s No. 2 GM

“It is very special for me to play against the reigning World Champion. I don’t get that opportunity very often.

And really, it’s not just Gukesh — all the participants are very strong. I’m interested in playing against everyone in the tournament. It’s great to play in such a strong event. But it might also be tiring towards the end.

I would be happy with scoring four points. Not the most ambitious goal, but even that is not an easy one to achieve.”

Czech’s No. 2 GM David Navara (2626) is widely regarded as the strongest player in Czech history. Navara became a Czech National Champion 13 times and won European Blitz Championship 3 times. David Navara participated in the interview after his game with Gukesh Dommaraju, which ended in a draw.

Credit: Prague International Chess Festival