D Gukesh turns focus to Classical format as World Chess Championship gets closer: ‘I will be playing more Classical’

D Gukesh turns focus to Classical format as World Chess Championship gets closer: ‘I will be playing more Classical’

There’s still some time to go for the 2026 World Chess Championship, but reigning champion D Gukesh knows it’s time to start preparing for his next big challenge. The 19-year-old chess star says preparations will begin in the second half of 2025.

D Gukesh will be defending his world chess title next year in the Classical format. Image: D Gukesh on X