World Chess Championship challenger Javokhir Sindarov issues warning to Gukesh: 'I'm very close'

Javokhir Sindarov has started making changes to his chess game as he gets ready for the World Chess Championship against reigning champion D Gukesh of India, whom he feels doesn't have a "clear" weakness. Sindarov became the challenger to Gukesh's world crown after winning the FIDE Candidates 2026 in a blistering fashion.

Only 20, Sindarov has witnessed a sharp rise in his fortunes recently. Before winning the Candidates, the Uzbekistan Grandmaster won the FIDE World Cup last year in Goa for his first major title. He will take on the youngest world champion, Gukesh, for the biggest title later this year.

Sindarov speaks on Gukesh and his game

Gukesh's poor form since beating Ding Liren in the 2025 World Chess Championship has made Sindarov favourites for many. Gukesh has not won any major title since becoming the world champion.

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However, Sindarov is not ready to play down the battle against Gukesh. Recently, in an interaction with the media in Norway, Sindarov said that Gukesh is a "very smart" player who has no "clear" weakness.

"I feel he is a very smart player. I played him at Tata Steel chess; he's really very strong," Sindarov was quoted as saying by PTI.

"I don't see any clear weakness in his game. From next month I'll start my preparations, but right now I need to focus on the Olympiad. My team is already working on the World Championship," added Sindarov.

The 14-game World Chess Championship format will also be a major challenge for Sindarov, who will be playing for the world title for the first time.

Sindarov also revealed that he is well aware of the challenges, but will fancy his chances.

"Actually, I've played 6-8 matches in the men's World Cup, but this classical 14-game match, I've never played before. I cannot say anything because I don't have any experience, but I know it will be very hard, and I also know I'm very close.

"So, I'm close to winning this tournament, like Gukesh also, because the chances might be similar, so it will be a very good match. But from my side, I just want to work on my chess and play well in my next tournament and in the World Championship match too."