American GM Levon Aronian commented on Javokhir Sindarov’s performance at the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026. Levon says all the tournament participants are struggling against Sindarov, and notes Javokhir’s personal qualities.

Levon Aronian

Levon Aronian

American GM

“The tournament isn’t as exciting as we all hoped. Especially for Hikaru and Fabiano…

So far it feels like everyone’s kind of collapsing and just letting Sindarov do whatever he wants with them.

He’s also a very open guy. Very friendly — very nice person. You can clearly see his talent. So, if I wasn’t rooting for our American boys, I’d definitely be rooting for him!”

The FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026 takes place from March 28 to April 16, at the Cap St Georges Hotel and Resort in Pegeia, Cyprus. Uzbek GM Javokhir Sindarov leads the tournament with 8/10 points.

Credit: Lennart Ootes / FIDE