German GM Vincent Keymer named the favorite to win the Candidates and discussed the format of the World Championship match. Keymer says Fabiano Caruana has the best chance of winning the Candidates, and notes that it’s difficult to make predictions about the Championship match based on player’s recent results.

Vincent Keymer

Vincent Keymer

German GM

“I think Fabi has the best chance of winning the Candidates. He’s been at the top for so long… He even won the Candidates once. He simply has more experience.

But Fabi vs. Gukesh — is super tough. We must understand that playing the World Championship match is very different from playing at top-level events. For example, Vishy held his title for so long without ever dominating major tournaments. Being prepared for a World Championship match is a completely different skill.

So that’s why I believe you can’t necessarily draw conclusions from other events. The only conclusion we can really draw is that World Championship matches are completely different. They’re different on the mental part. It’s just a different format, and it really changes the way chess is played.

It will be tough for both — let’s call it a 50/50.”

The FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026 will take place from March 28 to April 16, at the Cap St Georges Hotel and Resort in Pegeia, Cyprus. German GM Vincent Keymer (2776) has never qualified for the Candidates and will not participate in the 2026 event.

Credit: Michal Walusza