The first match of the Speed Chess Championship Semifinals 2026 in London has concluded. After 26 games, Magnus Carlsen scored 13 wins and 8 draws, defeating Russian GM Denis Lazavik with a score of 17-9.

With this victory Magnus Carlsen advances to the Finals of the tournament. Denis Lazavik will play in the Consolation bracket to determine the third-place winner.

The Speed Chess Championship is a premier online/live hybrid, single-elimination tournament organized by Chess.com. Event features a Match clock system with Blitz & Bullet games: 90 minutes of 5+1, 60 minutes of 3+1, and 30 minutes of 1+1.