Gukesh Carlsen rivalry returns as Norway Chess 2026 opens in Oslo

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The Gukesh Carlsen rivalry returns to centre stage as Norway Chess 2026 begins with elite players competing in Oslo.

OSLO: The Gukesh Carlsen rivalry is once again drawing global attention as Norway Chess 2026 officially begins in Oslo today with some of the world’s top players competing across the Open and Women’s tournaments. Organisers have confirmed that reigning world champion D Gukesh and Norwegian chess icon Magnus Carlsen will meet twice during the competition, reviving one of chess’ most talked-about modern rivalries.

Their first clash is scheduled for Round 4 on May 28, while the second meeting will take place in Round 10 on June 5. Interest around the pair has remained high since their dramatic encounter last year, when Carlsen reacted emotionally after losing to the Indian grandmaster.

Ahead of the tournament, Gukesh addressed growing anticipation around the rematch while maintaining a calm approach. “I mean… my job is to play chess. That is within my control,” the world champion said during the official press conference in Oslo.

The 19-year-old also reflected on how emotional moments are helping the game reach wider audiences. He said chess players showing more personality and emotion has made the sport more engaging for global fans and newer viewers.

The Gukesh Carlsen rivalry arrives at an important period for professional chess commercially as well. Earlier this year, football star Erling Haaland invested in Norway Chess and the Total Chess World Championship Tour project, highlighting the sport’s expanding global profile beyond traditional audiences.

The event also carries growing Gulf relevance following the participation of UAE chess player Rouda Al Serkal in last year’s Norway Chess Open. Her appearance reflected the UAE’s increasing involvement in international chess and the wider growth of the sport across the GCC region.

Tournament action today includes Carlsen facing Alireza Firouzja, Gukesh taking on Vincent Keymer and R Praggnanandhaa meeting Wesley So.

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