Uzbekistan’s GM Javokhir Sindarov and China’s GM Wei Yi booked their places in the FIDE World Cup final on Sunday after winning their respective semifinals.
With their wins, the two also sealed coveted spots in the 2026 Candidates Tournament, the gateway to a World Championship match.
Rapid Tie-Break Drama
Both semifinals had finished level after two tense classical games, pushing the contenders into rapid tie-breaks — a format that has defined this World Cup, separating the cool-headed from the cracked.
Sindarov Takes Control Early
Sindarov, fresh from ending the fairy-tale run of GM José Eduardo Martínez Alcántara in the quarterfinals, struck first. Playing with the black pieces, the 19-year-old took full control against Nodirbek Yakubboev, forcing
resignation after 47 moves. The key moment came in a rook-and-pawn ending, where Sindarov’s c-pawn threatened to queen.
With momentum on his side, Sindarov calmly steered the second rapid game to a draw with white. Despite Yakubboev pressing hard for 54 moves, the youngster held firm, punching his ticket to the final with a 2.5-1.5 aggregate.
Wei Yi Survives Scare, Then Strikes
In the other semifinal, top seed and pre-tournament favourite Wei Yi once again relied on his rapid prowess. He drew the first tie-break game with black, then defeated GM Andrey Esipenko in 57 moves with white.
But the victory was far from straightforward. Wei found himself in serious trouble after move 55, down two pawns in a rook-and-knight endgame. Yet Esipenko faltered, missing a chance to defend his rook and turn the screws. Wei pounced immediately.
Calling it the “biggest achievement of my chess career,” Wei said he entered the day focused only on giving his best.
“In the final position in the second game, my opponent blundered a rook. Otherwise, black could have played for a win… maybe he was tired. This is a long tournament.”
The Final Awaits
Sindarov and Wei will now battle for the Viswanathan Anand Cup, while Yakubboev and Esipenko meet in the playoff for the final Candidates spot.
(with PTI inputs)
