Gukesh vs Carlsen: Chess’ New Age Rivalry Returns to Centre Stage in Oslo

Young world champion braces for blockbuster Norway Chess rematches with Magnus Carlsen

Haaland-backed tournament reflects chess’ growing global and Gulf appeal

The tension is already building in Oslo. The boards are set, the world’s best players are ready — but all eyes at Norway Chess 2026 are fixed on one electrifying storyline: the latest chapter in the growing rivalry between reigning world champion D Gukesh and Norwegian legend Magnus Carlsen.

The tournament officially begins today, but anticipation has been simmering ever since organisers confirmed the two chess superstars will meet twice during the event — first on May 28 in Round 4 and again on June 5 in the final round.

Their rivalry exploded into global headlines last year after Carlsen slammed the table in frustration following a shock defeat to the Indian prodigy, a moment that quickly spread far beyond the chess world and introduced millions to the drama of elite competition over 64 squares.

Now, with the rematch looming, the spotlight on Gukesh has only intensified.

Asked whether he expected another emotional reaction from Carlsen this year, the 19-year-old world champion remained calm and composed.

“My job is to play chess. That is within my control,” Gukesh said with a smile during Sunday’s press conference.

The Indian star, who turns 20 later this week, also acknowledged that moments of visible emotion are helping transform chess into a more mainstream spectacle.

“Chess players generally don’t show a lot of emotions, but when it did happen, a lot of people got attracted to chess,” he said. “I think it’s great for the game.”

Chess enters a new era of global attention

This year’s Norway Chess arrives amid a wider boom in the sport’s popularity and commercial reach.

Earlier in 2026, football superstar Erling Haaland invested in the tournament’s ambitious Total Chess World Championship Tour project, underlining the increasing crossover between elite sport, entertainment and chess.

The Gulf region has also become part of the sport’s growing story. Last year’s Norway Chess Open featured Rouda Al Serkal, the GCC’s first woman grandmaster, highlighting the UAE’s rapid rise on the international chess scene and the expanding popularity of chess across the region.

Heavyweight clashes headline opening rounds

The tournament opens with a stacked line-up in both the Open and Women’s sections.

In the women’s competition, Anna Muzychuk faces Zhu Jiner, world champion Ju Wenjun takes on Divya Deshmukh, while Koneru Humpy meets Bibisara Assaubayeva.

The men’s section promises immediate fireworks, with Alireza Firouzja facing Carlsen, R Praggnanandhaa taking on Wesley So, and Gukesh beginning his campaign against Germany’s Vincent Keymer.

Running until June 5, Norway Chess 2026 once again blends elite competition, emerging rivalries and global entertainment appeal — proving that modern chess is no longer confined to quiet halls, but increasingly occupies centre stage in world sport.