Russian GM Andrey Esipenko shared his first impressions of the venue for the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026 in a video on his Telegram channel. Esipenko expresses positive emotions, and notes that playing in the Candidates is his long-time dream.

Andrey Esipenko

Andrey Esipenko

Russian GM

“The hotel is wonderful, the food is excellent. The place is great, the organization so far is just first-class!

I am looking forward to the tournament, I plan to enjoy it. After all, playing in the Candidates has been my dream for many years!”

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. Russian GM Andrey Esipenko (2698) qualified for the event by finishing 3rd at the FIDE World Chess Cup 2025.

Credit: Michal Walusza / FIDE