"It's no surprise that an Indian is facing an Uzbek. Chess has returned to its homelands of origin" — French GM Vlad Tkachiev

Vladislav Tkachiev

French GM

“I think it’s Sindarov who’s going to win. A great Russian historian named Lev Gumilev had a theory. He said that every era corresponds to its nation. One could say today that the Uzbeks are living their period of passion for chess.

The history began in India, a very long time ago, and the first book of game rules was written in Persia in the 6th century. At that time, let’s not forget, Uzbekistan was part of Persia. As-Suli, the best player of his time in the Caliphate of Baghdad in the 9th century, also hailed from that region, located next to present-day Iran.

So, it’s no surprise that an Indian is facing an Uzbek for the World Championship title. Chess has returned to its homelands of origin.”