Magnus Carlsen to take on newly-crowned world champion Gukesh at Norway Chess 2025

Chennai: The chess world is gearing up for an extraordinary battle as Norway’s Magnus Carlsen, the world’s highest-rated player, takes on 18-year-old and the youngest World Champion D Gukesh of India at Norway Chess 2025 to be held in May next year.

The event will be held at Stavanger in Norway from May 26 to June 6, 2025 and promises to be one of the most highly anticipated matchups in chess history between Carlsen and the newly crowned champion.

Gukesh made headlines last Thursday when he defeated Ding Liren of China, annexing the World Championship title and bringing it back to India for the first time since five time champion Viswanathan Anand’s reign.

Gukesh has achieved remarkable success this year, winning the Tata Steel Masters, leading India to gold at the Chess Olympiad, dominating the Candidates Tournament, and finally claiming the ultimate prize in classical chess--the World Championship title.

The young champion is eager to return to Norway Chess next year. “I’m excited to face the strongest players in the world again in Norway and also the Armageddons will be fun,” Gukesh said, , according to a press release here today.

When asked about his preparation, he said “I’ll prepare as I usually do and try to be the best version of myself in every way.”

In 2023, Gukesh finished third in Stavanger. Now, he’s back as World Champion, ready to challenge Carlsen on his home soil.

Will the rising star seize victory, or will Carlsen’s experience and home advantage prevail remains to be seen.

“This matchup is truly unique, and it’s thrilling to see the World Champion face off against the world’s highest-rated player,” said Kjell Madland, founder and tournament director of Norway Chess.

“The whole world will be watching, and the Norway Chess team is proud to host such an incredible event here in Stavanger”, he said.

Norway Chess is one of the world’s premier chess tournaments, bringing together the top male and female players in a distinctive 6-player double round-robin format.

The introduction of Norway Chess Women in 2024, with equal prize funds for men and women, underscores the event’s commitment to gender equality and innovation in the sport.

The Norway Summit, an annual multi-disciplinary conference on new technology, innovation and the economy, will take place alongside Norway Chess each year and is scheduled for June 4 in 2025.