The Chess Candidates Tournament

How challengers earn the chance to become world champion

The FIDE Candidates Tournament is one of the most exciting events in chess. It helps decide who will challenge the current World Champion.

In this tournament, eight of the world’s best chess players compete against each other. They play many games in a special format called a “double round-robin,” which means every player faces all the others twice—once with white pieces and once with black.

The goal is simple: score the most points by winning games or drawing them. At the end, the player with the highest score becomes the official challenger.

For example, champions like D. Gukesh earned their chance at the world title by winning this tournament.

There is also a Women’s Candidates Tournament, where top female players compete for the chance to challenge the Women’s World Champion.

The Candidates Tournament is like a grand chess test—it brings together the smartest minds and most creative strategies. Only one winner emerges, ready to face the champion and fight for the crown! ♟️