Pragnanandha wins Norway Chess 2026

R Praggnanandhaa added another glittering chapter to Indian chess history, becoming the first Indian to win the prestigious Norway Chess title after a remarkable late surge in Oslo. The 20-year-old Grandmaster sealed the crown with a final-round victory over Germany’s Vincent Keymer, completing one of the most memorable comebacks in the tournament’s history.

Praggnanandhaa’s triumph is particularly significant given the quality of the field. The elite tournament featured World No.1 Magnus Carlsen, reigning world champion D Gukesh, Alireza Firouzja, Wesley So and Keymer, making it one of the strongest events on the international calendar.

Praggnanandhaa, who began the day in third place, secured a crucial classical win worth three points to finish with 18 points and seal the title. The 20-year-old from Chennai achieved a feat that had eluded Indian chess legend Viswanathan Anand and reigning world champion D. Gukesh since the tournament began in 2013.

Competing in Norway Chess for only the second time, Praggnanandhaa produced a strong finish, including two classical wins over world number one Magnus Carlsen during the event. American Grandmaster Wesley So, who led the standings going into the final round, finished second with 17 points after winning the Armageddon tie-break against Alireza Firouzja, who ended third with 15.5 points. D. Gukesh had a disappointing campaign, while Carlsen finished fourth with 13 points after losing to Praggnanandhaa in the final round.