Players 2026

Norway Chess 2026 once again brings together some of the world’s strongest chess players for an exciting new edition — this year hosted in the capital, Oslo.

Both tournaments, Norway Chess and Norway Chess Women, share the same format, prize fund and playing venue. Each tournament follows a double round-robin format with six players, where all participants face each other twice.

The Armageddon format ensures a decisive result in every round, adding an extra level of excitement for players and spectators alike. If a classical game ends in a draw, the players immediately compete in an Armageddon game to determine the winner.

The full list of participants in both tournaments — Norway Chess and Norway Chess Women — will be published below. Additional player announcements will follow in the coming weeks.

Magnus Carlsen (Norway)

Magnus Carlsen has been World’s No.1 since July 2011. He is a 5-time World Champion in classical chess, the reigning 6-time World Rapid Champion, and the reigning 9-time World Blitz Champion. Additionally, he is a 7-time Norway Chess Champion.

Official FIDE rating (January 2026): 2840