Javokhir Sindarov, a rising star in the chess world, is set to challenge reigning champion Gukesh Dommaraju in the Salesforce FIDE World Championship Match 2026. Born in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Sindarov began playing chess at age four and quickly climbed the ranks, becoming a Grandmaster at just 12 years old. His career has been marked by impressive victories, including three Uzbekistan national championships and a gold medal at the 2022 Chess Olympiad in Chennai.
Sindarov's breakthrough on the international stage came at the 2021 World Cup in Sochi, where he defeated tournament favorite Alireza Firouzja. His steady rise continued with strong performances at the World Cup in Baku and the Asian Games in Hangzhou in 2023. By the end of that year, he had achieved a coveted 2700-rating, solidifying his place among the world's elite chess players.
In 2025, Sindarov claimed the World Cup title in Goa, securing his spot in the Candidates Tournament held in Cyprus in March and April 2026. He dominated the tournament, winning five of his first six games and never relinquishing his lead. This victory earned him the right to challenge Dommaraju for the world championship title.
The Salesforce FIDE World Championship Match 2026 will take place from November 22 to December 12 in Cologny, near Geneva, Switzerland. Sindarov enters the match with confidence, having recently helped Uzbekistan secure its second Olympic gold medal at the Olympiad in Samarkand last September. The match promises to be a fascinating clash of talent and determination, with both players demonstrating exceptional skill and mental resilience.