President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev spoke by phone with Uzbek GM Javokhir Sindarov on April 14. Mirziyoyev congratulated Sindarov on his victory at the FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026, and stated that he believes in Javokhir’s win in the 2026 World Championship Match.

Shavkat Mirziyoyev

Shavkat Mirziyoyev

President of Uzbekistan

“Our entire nation prayed, and those prayers were heard. You have glorified the strength of our country to the whole world and shown what our youth are capable of.

For the first time in the history of Uzbek chess, you won the FIDE Candidates Tournament early, suffered no losses, broke several records, achieved six convincing victories out of 13 games, and performed a worthy deed, true to the legacy of our ancestors — Khorezmi and Beruni — and did this during the anniversary of our ancestor Amir Temur. Our people are very happy.

You defeated grandmasters with the highest ratings through strong will and courage. Even the most renowned chess players acknowledge you. I congratulate you once again, I am proud of you. You are our hero, know this!

If it is destined, by the end of the year you will definitely bring the world chess crown home, as you promised. I believe in this!”

Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev congratulated Javokhir Sindarov after his victory at the World Chess Cup 2025. 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 won the tournament 1 round ahead and became a candidate for the World Championship title. Sindarov will face reigning World Champion Gukesh Dommaraju at the end of 2026.

Credit: Communications Department of the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan