Gukesh Set to Defend World Chess Crown Against Javokhir Sindarov From 24 November
India's world champion faces the Uzbek grandmaster in a title match running till 12 December, the headline event of a packed sporting month.
D Gukesh will defend his World Chess Championship title against Uzbekistan's Javokhir Sindarov in a match scheduled from 24 November to 12 December 2026.
Gukesh became the youngest undisputed world champion when he won the title in 2024. This will be his first defence, and it pits him against one of the strongest players of his own generation.
A young rivalry
Sindarov, also in his early twenties, has risen fast on the international circuit. Both players are known for deep opening preparation and calm play under pressure, which makes long, tense games likely.
A busy November for Indian sport
- Cricket: India's men are on a tour of New Zealand from 4 November to 1 December.
- Football: India play friendlies against New Zealand on 12 and 15 November, while the SAFF Championship runs till 17 November. The Indian Super League began on 1 November.
- Shooting: The ISSF World Championships in Doha run till 14 November, with 36 Olympic quota places on offer.
- Youth Olympics: Indian athletes are in action till 13 November.
But for chess fans, the dates that matter most start on 24 November.