FIDE invites bids for 2026 World Chess Championship: Gukesh vs. Sindarov

FIDE has opened the bidding process to select a host for the 2026 World Chess Championship match between reigning champion Gukesh Dommaraju and Uzbek challenger Javokhir Sindarov.

Photo: Fide.com

The match is provisionally scheduled to take place from November 23 to December 17, 2026, spanning a total duration of up to 25 days.

According to FIDE, the contest is expected to be the youngest world championship match in history, as both players will be 20 years old at the start of the event.

The governing body has estimated the total budget for the event at $8.5 million. This includes a minimum prize fund of $2.5 million and a $1.1 million fee payable to FIDE.

Potential bidders are required to submit detailed financial proposals, including spending breakdowns and terms for commercial, sponsorship, and broadcasting rights.

Applications must be submitted to FIDE by May 31, 2026, at 23:59 Lausanne time. FIDE stated that it reserves the right to extend the deadline or engage in further negotiations with applicants. The final selection will be based on the quality of the proposed conditions and their potential contribution to the global development of chess.