In a major disappointment for Indian chess fans, reigning world champion D Gukesh will not be participating in the upcoming Tata Steel Chess India tournament. The organisers made the official announcement on Friday, confirming his withdrawal from the event scheduled to begin in Kolkata on January 7, 2026.
A Sudden Withdrawal and Its Impact
The tournament was poised to be Gukesh's first competitive appearance of the new year, making his last-minute exit a significant surprise. Fans across the country were eagerly anticipating watching the world champion play on home soil once again. His absence means they will now have to wait longer to see him in action in India.
Tournament Director and grandmaster Dibyendu Barua confirmed the news, stating that Gukesh pulled out due to personal reasons. "Due to personal reasons, D. Gukesh will be unable to participate in Tata Steel Chess India this year," Barua said. He openly admitted that the decision is a substantial setback for the event's prestige and local enthusiasm.
"This is definitely a big setback for the organisers and for the chess fans in Kolkata," Barua told The Indian Express. "All the chess lovers were eagerly waiting to watch Gukesh play in their city as a world champion for the first time." Gukesh was last seen competing at the World Rapid and Blitz Championship, and no detailed explanation beyond personal reasons has been provided for his withdrawal.
Star-Studded Lineup Despite the Blow
Despite the absence of the world champion, the Tata Steel Chess India tournament still promises thrilling contests with a powerful roster of players. The organisers have moved swiftly to fill the void, replacing Gukesh with talented Indian grandmaster Nihal Sarin.
The Open section will feature a formidable field including the legendary Viswanathan Anand, American star Wesley So, and Indian prodigies Praggnanandhaa and Arjun Erigaisi. Notably, the defending champion, Magnus Carlsen, will also not be returning this year to defend his title.
The Women's event is equally impressive, boasting top international players like Aleksandra Goryachkina and Kateryna Lagno, alongside Indian talents Divya Deshmukh and R Vaishali.
The Tournament's Legacy and Future
The Tata Steel Chess India tournament, featuring rapid and blitz formats, has been a cornerstone of the Indian chess calendar since its inception in 2018. It has consistently attracted elite global players, cementing India's position as a major hub for the sport.
While Gukesh's withdrawal is undeniably a blow to the event's immediate draw, the strong alternative lineup ensures that the competitive spirit remains high. The focus now shifts to how the other top grandmasters will seize the opportunity in the absence of the world champion, promising an unpredictable and exciting tournament for spectators in Kolkata and online.
