Uzbek GM Javokhir Sindarov shared what he did between the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026 and GCT Super Rapid & Blitz Poland 2026. Sindarov says he didn’t play chess after the Candidates, explains that he focused on resting, and shares his impressions of the first day at the GCT.

Javokhir Sindarov

Javokhir Sindarov

Uzbek GM

“What have I been doing between these events? Actually, I haven’t been working with chess at all these past couple of weeks.

Some Counter-Strike? Yes, while I was resting, I was doing various things unrelated to chess. Just chilling, because I worked a lot before the Candidates Tournament, and it takes a lot of energy during that. But I prepared for three days before this tournament, and now I feel good.

I’m very happy with the first day. Let’s see what happens next!”

The FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026 took place from March 28 to April 15, at the Cap St Georges Hotel and Resort in Pegeia, Cyprus. Uzbek GM Javokhir Sindarov won the tournament 1 round ahead and became a candidate for the World Championship title.

Grand Chess Tour Super Rapid & Blitz Poland 2026 takes place in Warsaw from May 5 to 10. Uzbek GM Javokhir Sindarov is tied for second place in the overall standings after the first day of the tournament.

Credit: Lennart Ootes